The 54-year-old former Ballon d’Or winner Zinedine ZidaneOURCE: ESPN Soccer has been appointed as the new coach of the France men’s national team, stepping into the role after a five‑year hiatus from coaching. His arrival follows Didier Deschamps’ resignation following France’s disappointing fourth‑place finish at the 2026 World Cup and sets the stage for the September UEFA Nations League matches and the Euro 2028 qualification campaign.

Zidane’s résumé is built on a record of success at Real Madrid, where he guided the club to three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016-18 and two La Liga crowns in 2017 and 2020. His leadership style, marked by strong man‑management and a flexible tactical approach, has been praised for maximizing individual talent while maintaining collective cohesion.

Under Zidane, France is expected to shift from Deschamps’ 4‑2‑3‑1 to a preferred 4‑3‑3 formation, retaining core stars such as Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise while integrating promising young players. His expanded coaching staff, including David Bettoni and former France teammateserías, aims to provide a more elite support structure.

Zidane’s international experience and proven track record give Les Bleus a coach capable of turning talent into triumphs on the world stage.