Zidane returns to France setup after five-year wait for dream coaching job

Football legend Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the France men's national football team, taking charge of the side he once helped to its greatest achievements as a player. The French Football Federation (FFF) announced that Zidane has signed a four-year contract, replacing Didier Deschamps after his successful 12-year tenure.

The appointment marks Zidane's return to football management after leaving Real Madrid in 2021. Zidane had remained away from club coaching for five years, despite receiving offers, as he waited for the opportunity to manage the French national team.

FFF president Philippe Diallo announced the decision at the federation's headquarters in Paris and described Zidane as one of the biggest figures in French football history. He said the appointment represented an important moment for the national team.

Zidane expressed his excitement at taking charge of France, saying he had always viewed the national team as his ultimate coaching ambition. He said he turned down club opportunities because leading Les Bleus was the role he wanted most.

"France team makes you dream," Zidane said while speaking about the opportunity. He added that he was ready for the challenge and wanted to help the team continue its success.

Zidane's legendary playing career

Before becoming a coach, Zidane established himself as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Born in Marseille, France, in 1972, Zidane began his professional career with Cannes before making his name at clubs including Bordeaux, Juventus and Real Madrid.

As a midfielder, Zidane was known for his exceptional technical ability, vision, ball control, passing range and ability to influence important matches. Playing primarily as an attacking midfielder or No. 10, he became famous for his creativity, composure under pressure and match-winning performances.

Zidane was the central figure in France's historic 1998 FIFA World Cup triumph. In the final against Brazil at the Stade de France, he scored two headed goals as France won 3-0 to claim their first World Cup title.

Two years later, Zidane helped France win the UEFA European Championship in 2000. His performances earned him global recognition and established him as one of the most influential players of his generation.

During his club career, Zidane won major trophies across Europe. He won league titles with Juventus and Real Madrid, the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid, and several individual awards, including the FIFA World Player of the Year award three times and the Ballon d'Or in 1998.

Zidane's coaching achievements

Zidane began his managerial career at Real Madrid's youth academy before becoming first-team coach in 2016. His first spell as Real Madrid manager became one of the most successful coaching periods in modern football.

Under Zidane, Real Madrid won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018, becoming the first club to achieve that feat in the modern Champions League era.

He also guided Real Madrid to two La Liga titles, two UEFA Super Cups, two FIFA Club World Cups and two Spanish Super Cups across his two managerial spells.

Zidane's success came from his ability to manage a squad filled with world-class players, maintain team balance and deliver results in high-pressure matches. He was praised for his man-management skills, calm approach and ability to build confidence among players.

Zidane's tactical approach

As a coach, Zidane has generally preferred a flexible tactical approach rather than relying on one fixed system. During his time at Real Madrid, he often used formations such as 4-3-3, 4-3-1-2 and 4-4-2 depending on the players available and the opponent.

His tactical philosophy focused on:

• Strong midfield control through technically gifted players.
• Quick transitions from defence to attack.
• Giving creative players freedom in attacking areas.
• Maintaining defensive balance while allowing attacking talent to express itself.
• Adapting tactics based on match situations rather than following a rigid style.

At Real Madrid, Zidane built teams around midfield dominance, with players such as Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro providing control and balance. He also relied on experienced forwards and defenders to perform in crucial moments.

With France, Zidane is expected to work with a generation of talented players including Kylian Mbappe and other emerging stars. His challenge will be to combine France's physical strength and individual quality with a clear playing identity.

Replacing Didier Deschamps

Zidane takes over from Didier Deschamps, who led France for more than a decade and guided the team to the 2018 FIFA World Cup title. Deschamps also reached another World Cup final in 2022 and maintained France as one of international football's strongest teams.

Deschamps stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, where France reached the semi-finals before losing to Spain.

Zidane praised Deschamps' contribution and acknowledged the success achieved during his time as manager. He said his aim would be to continue France's winning tradition while introducing his own approach.

New challenge with Les Bleus

Zidane's first matches as France coach will come in the Nations League, beginning with an away fixture against Turkey on September 25, followed by a match against Belgium three days later.

His first home appearance at the Stade de France will be against Italy on October 2, a fixture carrying personal significance because Zidane's playing career included memorable moments against Italy, including the 2006 World Cup final.

The appointment gives Zidane the chance to lead France from the sidelines after years of representing the country on the pitch. With his experience as a World Cup-winning player and Champions League-winning coach, expectations will be high as he begins a new era for Les Bleus.