Zinedine Zidane has officially been appointed as the new head coach of the French national team, ending years of speculation linking the World Cup-winning legend with the country’s top job.

The French Football Federation confirmed that Zidane will succeed Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after more than a decade in charge following France’s disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

The appointment reunites one of France’s greatest-ever players with the national team he inspired to 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 glory.

Zidane arrives with an outstanding managerial reputation after leading Real Madrid to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, two La Liga crowns and numerous other major honours.

Speaking after his unveiling, Zidane described the opportunity as “the greatest honour” of his coaching career, adding that representing France from the dugout carries the same pride as wearing the famous blue jersey.

He also pledged to build an exciting team capable of competing for every major trophy.

Supporters will now expect Zidane to usher in a new generation of talent while restoring France as one of the favourites for the 2028 UEFA European Championship and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.