Zidane confirmed as France head coach

Zinedine Zidane officially takes the helm as the new head coach of the French national football team, a move widely anticipated following Didier Deschamps' departure. The French Football Federation announced the appointment yesterday. Zidane, 54, had long been considered the top candidate for the prestigious role.

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For me, it’s an immense joy… being able to become the coach of this French team. I don’t have any other words.

Deschamps' tenure, which began in 2012, concluded this month after France secured fourth place at the World Cup. During his leadership, Deschamps guided France to glory in the 2018 World Cup and to the final in 2022. Zidane, a celebrated former player and coach, expressed his profound excitement about the opportunity.

"For me, it’s an immense joy… being able to become the coach of this French team. I don’t have any other words," Zidane stated. He has committed to a four-year contract, extending through the 2030 World Cup. Zidane, who previously managed Real Madrid from 2021, emphasized his singular focus on the national team role, having turned down other club offers.

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I’m holding myself back because I have so many emotions inside me. I’m ready for the challenge, that’s what drives me today.

"The France job was the only one I wanted," Zidane declared at his unveiling in Paris. He noted his readiness for the challenge, which he stated is his primary motivation. Zidane's coaching career has so far been limited to his successful spell at Real Madrid. His first match in charge will be an away fixture against Turkey in the UEFA Nations League on September 25.

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The France job was the only one I wanted.