Zinedine Zidane Appointed Head Coach of France National Football Team

Former captain and World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane has been appointed head coach of the French national football team. Zidane has signed a contract lasting until the 2030 World Cup qualifiers, with his first match scheduled for September 25 against Turkey. The French Football Federation has hailed Zidane as a living legend and expressed confidence that under his leadership, the team will make new history. Kathmandu, August 28.

Didier Deschamps, who captained the team for 14 years and led France to the 2018 World Cup victory, stepped down after France’s semi-final defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Subsequently, the French Football Federation (FFF) entrusted the coaching role to Zidane. As the hero who secured France’s first-ever World Cup title in 1998, Zidane had been away from coaching since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. The 54-year-old has committed to remain as coach through the 2030 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Upon his appointment, Zidane described becoming the national team coach as a great honor and responsibility. He thanked the French Football Federation for the trust placed in him and praised the 14-year contribution of Deschamps and his coaching staff. Zidane also expressed respect for all his fellow coaches and emphasized the high ambitions he holds for the national team.

Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, called Zidane a “living legend” in French football and expressed confidence that his leadership will bring new energy and inspiration to the squad. Under Deschamps, France reached the finals of three major tournaments and won their second World Cup in 2018. However, France finished fourth in the 2026 World Cup. Zidane’s first competitive match in charge will be on September 25 in the UEFA Nations League against Turkey.