French sports daily L'Équipe reports that Zinedine Zidane, the 1998 World Cup winner and former Real Madrid manager, will become the next head coach of the French national team. The appointment, which has not yet been confirmed by the French Football Federation (FFF), is set to take effect on 1 September, according to the newspaper. Le Parisien adds that Zidane has already begun assembling his coaching staff, with long-time assistant David Bettoni expected to join him.
A New Era for Les Bleus
Zidane replaces Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after 14 years at the helm. Deschamps' tenure included 185 matches, a World Cup victory in 2018, the 2020-21 Nations League trophy, and appearances in the finals of Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup. His final match was a 6-4 loss to England in the World Cup third-place playoff, a game that set records for goals scored. England Edges France 6-4 in Record-Breaking World Cup Third-Place Match.
Zidane and Deschamps were teammates when France won the 1998 World Cup on home soil. As a coach, Zidane led Real Madrid to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, an unprecedented achievement. He has been out of management since leaving the Spanish club in 2021.
FFF president Philippe Diallo has indicated that an official announcement will be made before the end of the month. Zidane's first match in charge is expected to be an away Nations League fixture against Turkey, followed by a home match against Italy at the Stade de France on 2 October.
The transition marks a significant moment for French football, as Zidane brings a blend of tactical acumen and star power to a squad that remains one of the strongest in the world. His ability to manage high-profile players and deliver results in knockout competitions will be closely watched across Europe.
