France have entered a new era after officially appointing Zinedine Zidane as the national team head coach.
Didier Deschamps ended his remarkable 14-year spell in charge after leading Les Bleus through another World Cup campaign.
France reached the semi-finals before finishing fourth, closing the tournament with a thrilling defeat to England in the third-place play-off.
The French Football Federation has now acted quickly to appoint his successor. There was little doubt over who would take over.
Following years of speculation linking him with the role, Zinedine Zidane has officially been announced as the new manager of the France national team.
The French Football Federation confirmed the appointment after an Executive Committee meeting, with Zidane signing a four-year contract that will keep him in charge until the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The former Real Madrid manager becomes the 18th coach in the history of Les Bleus and will officially begin work on August 1.
His first competitive assignment will come in the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League before he leads France into the Euro 2028 qualifying campaign and the road to the 2030 World Cup.
Speaking after his appointment, Zidane expressed his pride at accepting the role. Zidane said:
“I’ve often said it: there’s nothing greater than the French national team. So it’s a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team.
“It’s also a responsibility. I want to thank President Philippe Diallo, the Executive Committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the fourteen years of service from Didier and his staff.”
France’s new chapter will begin in September when Zidane leads Les Bleus into their opening UEFA Nations League matches against Turkey and Belgium.
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