Zinedine Zidane takes the reins of the French national team
The French Football Federation has officially appointed Zinedine Zidane as the manager of Les Bleus, ending Didier Deschamps' era following the 2026 World Cup.
Zinedine Zidane succeeds Didier Deschamps
Ten days after Les Bleus' defeat to England in the World Cup classification match, a new chapter begins.
The former number 10 of Les Bleus had never hidden his ambition to one day occupy this position. Already in 2022, he had expressed his desire to manage the national team, a dream he is now fulfilling after a coaching career already rich in success.
A sporting legacy like no other
Zinedine Zidane embodies the excellence of French football. A world champion in 1998, he subsequently built an equally impressive coaching career. His time at Real Madrid left a lasting impression: he won several major titles there, including three consecutive Champions Leagues. A performance that demonstrates his ability to manage a dressing room composed of stars with sometimes complex personalities.
This Madrid experience was forged alongside Carlo Ancelotti, of whom he was an assistant. A collaboration that shaped his management approach, particularly in handling individual players within a group.
First steps in September
The composition of his technical staff remains to be finalized. Several names are circulating, including that of David Bettoni, his former teammate at Cannes and assistant at Real Madrid. Fabien Barthez and Bernard Diomède, both world champions in 1998, could also join the coaching staff.
A nomination praised by former players
Luis Fernandez, European champion in 1984 with Les Bleus, welcomed this appointment favorably. The former midfielder highlighted Zidane's ability to lead a group of stars, citing his Madrid experience. He also emphasized his humility and calm, qualities he deems essential for a national team manager.
The press conference introducing him, broadcast live on July 28 at 11 a.m., marks the official start of this new era for the French national team.
Key Points
- Zinedine Zidane appointed manager of the French national team on July 28, 2026
- Succeeds Didier Deschamps after a long tenure at the helm of Les Bleus
- Former world champion (1998) and coach at Real Madrid with several major titles
- First matches scheduled for September: Turkey, Belgium, and Italy
- Positive reactions, particularly from Luis Fernandez
Sources
- France Info - "Zinedine Zidane manager of the French national team? Follow with us the presentation of Didier Deschamps' successor at 11 a.m.". (secondary)
- France 24 - "Football: Zidane expected to write the post-Deschamps chapter". (secondary)
- Le Figaro - "Between light and shadow: the legend of Zinedine Zidane with Les Bleus". (secondary)
- Le Figaro - "Luis Fernandez to Le Figaro: 'Zizou will achieve something great with Les Bleus'". (secondary)
Transparency: 4 sources (0 primary, 4 secondary). Verification: July 28, 2026.
Truthyx - July 28, 2026