Overview
- The French Football Federation confirmed Zidane as France’s manager on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, with a four-year contract that runs through the 2030 World Cup.
- The deal is reported to start on August 1, and Zidane’s first competitive games are France’s UEFA Nations League fixtures against Turkey, Belgium and Italy between Sept. 25 and Oct. 5.
- Zidane has not coached since leaving Real Madrid in 2021 but brings a top-level record at club level, including three consecutive Champions League titles and two La Liga crowns.
- He said the France job was the only role he wanted and has signalled a more attacking, possession-based approach while stressing the need to manage high-profile players and dressing-room dynamics.
- France move from a long Deschamps era into a homecoming for a national icon, with immediate pressure on Zidane to convert public goodwill into results and to set direction for Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup cycle.