Zinedine Zidane has officially been named the new manager of the France national football team, replacing Didier Deschamps after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, according to an announcement by French Football Federation President Philippe Diallo on Tuesday, July 28.
Zidane Takes Over After Deschamps Era
Philippe Diallo introduced the new boss during a press conference, thanking Deschamps for his historic tenure as the longest-serving manager in France’s history. Deschamps finished his run with a fourth-place finish at the 2026 World Cup. Diallo also congratulated Zidane, noting their shared history as teammates when Zidane scored two goals in the 1998 World Cup final.
France announced the appointment on social media with a graphic featuring a photo of 54-year-old Zidane in a suit, accompanied by his name in white text below the team’s rooster logo. As a player, Zidane earned the nickname “Zizou,” scored 31 international goals, won the 1998 Ballon d’Or, secured the 1998 World Cup, and triumphed at the 2000 European Championship before retiring following the 2006 World Cup final against Italy.
Managerial Pedigree and Real Madrid Success
Zidane enters the national team job with a proven track record at the club level. He previously managed Real Madrid, where he captured three straight UEFA Champions League titles from 2015 to 2018, remaining the only manager to achieve the feat. He departed the Spanish club twice, first in 2018 and finally in 2021.
Did you know? Zinedine Zidane is the only manager to win three straight UEFA Champions League titles, a feat he accomplished with Real Madrid between 2015 and 2018.
Inheriting a World-Class Roster
Zidane inherits a talented squad that claimed the 2018 World Cup and reached the 2022 final before falling to Argentina on penalties. During the recent summer tournament, Les Bleus finished fourth after losing the third-place match to England in a 10-goal match. Standout performers included Kylian Mbappé, who scored 10 goals to secure back-to-back Golden Boot trophies and extend his record to 22 all-time World Cup goals. Ousmane Dembélé added six goals following his 2025 Ballon d’Or win, while Michael Olise surpassed Pelé’s record for most assists in a World Cup tournament.
Mbappé shared a heartfelt farewell to the outgoing manager ahead of his final match, writing in French: “To put into words all that you have brought us for the past 14 years is very difficult… Thank you for giving me the chance and opportunity to represent my country on the biggest stage for so many years. I feel privileged to have been able to be at your side for one of the greatest legends of our country, and I will have only the best memories of all that we have lived and accomplished together.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new manager of the France national football team?
Zinedine Zidane was named the new manager of France by French Football Federation President Philippe Diallo on July 28.
Who did Zidane replace as France manager?
Zidane replaced Didier Deschamps, who finished his tenure after leading France to a fourth-place finish at the 2026 World Cup.
What are Zidane’s previous managerial achievements?
Zidane managed Real Madrid to three straight UEFA Champions League titles from 2015 to 2018.
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