France appoints Zinedine Zidane as new head coach
Zidane’s return to French football
Zinedine Zidane has been named the new head coach of the France men’s national team, marking his first coaching role in five years. He succeeds Didier Deschamps, who announced in January 2025 his intention to step down following the 2026 World Cup cycle. Zidane’s appointment was widely anticipated, and he officially begins his four-year contract on August 1.
At his unveiling in Paris, Zidane expressed his long-held desire for the national team position. He revealed that he had declined multiple club offers over the past four or five years, stating that the national team was the only role he sought after his time with Real Madrid. Discussions between Zidane and French football authorities commenced in February 2025, shortly after Deschamps’ announcement.
The 54-year-old acknowledged that leading a national team presents a new challenge compared to club management, but he expressed confidence and a lack of fear regarding the role. He emphasized his commitment to the team, stating, “I’m going to give it my all to ensure this team keeps winning – that’s the only thing that drives me.”
Approach and philosophy
While Zidane’s enthusiasm for the role was evident, he offered limited specific details on his tactical approach during his initial press conference. When questioned about his preferred style of play, he indicated that he would need to meet with the players first to explain his plans. He confirmed his intention “to do things differently” while also signaling a degree of “continuation” from his predecessor’s work, which he praised.
Zidane suggested that there would not be a complete break from the previous management style, aiming to maintain continuity for the team’s success. He hinted at retaining a focus on attacking play, noting his past role as a number 10 player and his motivation by “the game, it’s scoring goals.” This aligns with Deschamps’ recent approach, particularly given the attacking talent available to the French squad.
The new coach also addressed a question about Kylian Mbappe’s captaincy by stating that the immediate priority for Mbappe was rest, and they would have the opportunity to speak in September. Zidane’s full coaching team is expected to be announced a few weeks after his official start date.
Legacy and expectations
Zidane takes over a French team that has experienced significant success under Deschamps, including a World Cup victory in 2018 and a Nations League title in 2021. The team also reached the finals of the European Championships in 2016 and the World Cup in 2022. Zidane himself brings a formidable coaching record from his time at Real Madrid, where he secured two La Liga titles and three consecutive Champions League trophies between 2016 and 2018.
French FA president Phillippe Diallo recounted a conversation with Zidane in February 2025, where Zidane asserted, “Mr President, I know how to win.” This statement reportedly instilled confidence in Diallo regarding Zidane’s desire and capability to lead the team. Zidane’s iconic status in French football, both as a player and a coach, is expected to garner significant goodwill.
The reaction to Zidane’s appointment among players and fans has been largely positive. Mbappe welcomed him on Instagram, and former teammate Bixente Lizarazu described it as “a great day for French football,” highlighting Zidane’s ability to manage high-profile players. The respect Zidane commands in the dressing room is seen as a key strength, potentially enabling him to maximize the performance of attacking talents such as Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Michael Olise.
Zidane’s first match as head coach will be an away fixture in Turkey, followed by two games against Belgium and a match against Italy in Paris during the next international break, which will feature four Nations League fixtures over three weeks. His homecoming match at the Stade de France against Italy is anticipated in two months’ time.
Zidane’s experience includes two stints as manager of Real Madrid, where he achieved notable success. He was out of management since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in May 2021. During his playing career, Zidane was instrumental in France’s first World Cup win in 1998 and their European Championship triumph two years later, playing alongside Deschamps in both victories.
He noted that he did not spend the past five years idly, instead watching numerous matches, including those of the French national team, and observing the team’s potential. His four-year deal begins next month.
Source: bbc.co.uk
Amelia Stockwell is a Sports Reporter at News GB. She covered two Commonwealth Games for a national outlet. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of York and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in York, she runs with a local club and follows county cricket. “The quiet stories often matter most by the end of the season.”
