Zidane Returns to Lead France! Turns Down All Club Offers to Become National Team Coach: 'This Is the Only Thing I Wanted'

The French Football Federation has announced that 54-year-old football legend Zinedine Zidane will become the new head coach of the French men's national team. Zidane, a key figure in France's historic triumphs, is widely regarded as the greatest player in the nation's history.

Zinedine Zidane will take over as head coach of the French national team, succeeding Didier Deschamps. Zidane was a central figure in leading France to glory, most notably winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000.

Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, announced Zidane's appointment on Tuesday, July 28, at the federation's headquarters in Paris, revealing he has signed a four-year contract.

"This is a remarkable moment, and the reason lies in the person sitting beside me," said Diallo. "Zinedine is one of the legends of French football. For years, he has said that coaching the national team is one of his dreams."

The 54-year-old Zidane has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid in 2021.

"For me, this is a continuation, a dream," said Zidane. "During the past five years, I received offers from several clubs, but I turned them all down for France. This is the only thing I wanted to do."

Zidane described taking charge of the team he once played for and excelled in as "immense joy."

"I have mixed emotions, but I am fully prepared for this challenge," he said. "This is exactly what motivates me."

Zidane praised Deschamps, who led France to victory in the 2018 World Cup and will step down after this tournament—where France was defeated by Spain in the semifinals.

"Today, I have the opportunity to lead this team, and I will do everything to make it win," said Zidane. "I also want to congratulate 'DD' (Deschamps) on his incredible years of service."

Diallo revealed that after Deschamps announced his intention to step down following the 2026 World Cup, he met with Zidane in February 2025 to discuss the role.

"What motivates me is the game itself. I was a number 10, I loved scoring goals," said Zidane. "I was a leader on the pitch, and now I want to be a leader through experience."

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