Zinédine Zidane named France head coach as he succeeds Didier Deschamps | OneFootball

Zinédine Zidane has been appointed head coach of France, succeeding Didier Deschamps after his 2012-2026 reign. The French Football Federation announced the decision at a Tuesday news conference.

The former Real Madrid playmaker and coach becomes the third member of the 1998 world champions to lead Les Bleus, following Laurent Blanc’s 2010-2012 spell.

Zidane’s coaching pedigree is formidable, with three Champions League titles in 2016, 2017 and 2018 with the Merengues. He had been waiting for the chance to take charge of the national side for several years.

He spoke of immense joy and pride at the news, saying he was happy with what had come his way, composed yet full of emotion. He added that he is ready for the challenge, five years on from leaving Real Madrid.

His contract begins on the first of August and runs for four years, to the end of the next World Cup. The 2030 tournament is scheduled for Spain, Portugal and Morocco.

Source: Le Progres