Zidane’s return to management
Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the France national team, marking his first coaching role in five years. The announcement was made on Tuesday, confirming a move that had been anticipated for some time. Didier Deschamps, who led France for 12 years, announced in January 2025 his intention to step down following the 2026 World Cup, paving the way for Zidane’s appointment. Zidane’s contract is for four years.
During his unveiling in Paris, Zidane expressed his long-standing desire for the role. He stated that he had received multiple offers over the past four or five years but had declined them all, as the national team was the only position he truly wanted. He highlighted that he had been preparing for this job and had always viewed the France national team with the perspective of a future manager.
Zidane’s last coaching position was with Real Madrid, where he had two stints. He left Real Madrid five years ago and has since been linked with various top positions in football. He met with the French Football Federation president in February 2025, shortly after Deschamps’ announcement, to discuss the succession.
Approach to the role
While enthusiastic about his new role, Zidane offered limited specifics on his tactical approach during the press conference. When asked about the captaincy of Kylian Mbappe, he deferred, stating that they would have the opportunity to speak in September. Similarly, he did not delve into detailed explanations of his preferred style of play, indicating that he would meet with the players to explain his plans.
Zidane did confirm his intention to “do things differently” but also emphasized a degree of “continuation” from Deschamps’ work, which he praised. He noted that he would try to implement his own methods, but it would not be a complete break from the previous management. Zidane, a former number 10 as a player, hinted at retaining a role similar to the one Michael Olise thrived in during the summer, stating that scoring goals motivates him.
The appointment comes with some uncertainty, given Zidane’s five-year absence from management and the fact that Real Madrid was his only other senior coaching role. He acknowledged that leading a national team would be a new experience for him but expressed no fear, stating it was what he wanted. The French FA president, Phillippe Diallo, recounted a meeting in February 2025 where Zidane confidently stated, “Mr President, I know how to win,” which instilled confidence in his desire for the role.
Player and fan reception
The reaction to Zidane’s arrival has been overwhelmingly positive among players and fans. He was greeted by supporters carrying flares and banners upon leaving the French Football Federation’s headquarters. Kylian Mbappe welcomed him on Instagram, writing, “Welcome home.”
Bixente Lizarazu, a former France and Bordeaux teammate, described it as “a great day for French football,” citing Zidane’s success with Real Madrid and his ability to manage top players. Zidane’s iconic status and the respect he commands are seen as key strengths, potentially allowing him to maximize the performance of attacking talents like Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Olise.
Zidane’s four-year deal is set to begin next month, with his full coaching team to be announced in the coming weeks. The next international break will feature four Nations League fixtures over three weeks, providing the players with an introduction to the new management style. His first match will be an away trip to Turkey, followed by games against Belgium and Italy in Paris.
Source: bbc.co.uk
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