The French Football Federation (FFF) has finally appointed French football legend Zinedine Zidane as head coach, ending Didier Deschamps’ 14-year tenure. After many ups and downs and a long wait following his departure from Real Madrid, the French legend has finally taken his seat in the role he long dreamed of. The FFF has officially confirmed the news.
The French Football Federation has signed a contract with Zidane until 2030. As a result, the former World Cup winner will be seen in the dugout of Les Bleus at Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
After announcing Zidane as coach, FFF President Philippe Diallo called it a historic moment. He said, “This is an extraordinary and unforgettable moment. After 14 long years, the federation has the opportunity to appoint a new head coach. I would like to express my deepest respect and gratitude to Deschamps. For 14 long years, he kept French football at the top of the world game. He has taken the image of Les Bleus to unique heights on the football field. It is very important to pay due respect to his contribution.”
Zidane could not contain his excitement and emotion about this new chapter. Expressing his feelings after receiving the responsibility, he said, “This is a moment of immense joy for me. I am truly very happy and thrilled. I am fully prepared to face this new challenge, and it motivates me a great deal.”
After his unprecedented success at Real Madrid, Zidane turned down offers from various famous clubs, as his sights were set only on the French national team. Recalling his old memories and love for the team, Zidane added, “After finishing my coaching career at Real Madrid, my only desire was to take charge of the French national team. I turned down offers from all other clubs just to become the coach of the French national team. I have held this cherished dream since childhood — starting from the French youth teams, I went through every step and eventually played for the senior national team, which is the highest peak of a footballer’s career. Working for this team and ensuring victory after victory — this is my only motivation now.”
Zidane, who won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 for his country as a player, has also made history in his coaching career by leading Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles. The arrival of a personality like Zidane in the dugout after Deschamps’ departure signals a new dawn for French football. It now remains to be seen how much success he can maintain in the French dugout, having already excelled as both a player and a club coach.
