Zinedine Zidane has been officially unveiled in Paris as the new head coach of the French national football team, according to reporting by NOS Voetbal. The former star midfielder signed a four-year contract with the French federation, stepping into the role previously held by Didier Deschamps after a 14-year tenure.
Coaching Pedigree and Real Madrid Success
The appointment marks the 54-year-old manager’s second major job as a head coach. Zidane previously managed Real Madrid across two separate stints lasting four and a half years in total, according to NOS Voetbal. During his tenure at the Spanish club, he secured three UEFA Champions League titles and won the La Liga title, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup twice each.
NOS Voetbal reports that Zidane’s name had been frequently linked to the national team post, with both parties reportedly reaching a verbal agreement months prior to the official presentation. Read more about international management changes on our football news hub.
Legendary Playing Career with Les Bleus
As a player, Zidane earned 108 caps for the French national team. His international career included winning the 1998 World Cup on home soil and capturing the European Championship two years later at Euro 2000 in the Netherlands and Belgium, as detailed by NOS Voetbal. His playing career ended in a dramatic World Cup final in 2006 against Italy, where he opened the scoring before receiving a red card for a headbutt on defender Marco Materazzi, leading to an Italian victory on penalties.
Transition from the Deschamps Era
Zidane succeeds Didier Deschamps, who announced his departure prior to the World Cup in Qatar, where France reached the semi-finals, according to NOS Voetbal. Under Deschamps, France won the 2018 World Cup in Russia and finished as runners-up in Qatar after losing to Argentina. Deschamps concluded his 14-year run with a fourth-place finish at the tournament following defeats to Spain and England.
Pro Tip for Fans: Track upcoming UEFA fixtures and squad selections through official channels like the French Football Federation (FFF) website.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Zinedine Zidane appointed as France coach?
Zidane was officially presented in Paris on his appointment day, signing a four-year contract with the French federation, according to NOS Voetbal.
Who did Zinedine Zidane succeed?
He succeeded Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after a 14-year tenure that included winning the 2018 World Cup.
What major trophies did Zidane win as Real Madrid coach?
According to NOS Voetbal, Zidane won three Champions League titles, two La Liga titles, two Spanish domestic cups, and two Spanish Super Cups during his time at Real Madrid.
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