FIFA has officially welcomed Zinedine Zidane to his new role as head coach of the French national football team, following the French Football Federation's (FFF) confirmation of his appointment. The world football governing body shared a post on its official X page with the caption "Zizou is back," and published a statement on its official website outlining Zidane's managerial career and what he brings to the French national setup.
Zidane's Long-Awaited Return
Zidane succeeds his former France teammate Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after 14 years as Les Bleus head coach. The 1998 FIFA World Cup winner had been without a job since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in 2021. During that period, he confirmed that he had turned down several opportunities, insisting the France job was the only one that truly mattered to him.
“I've often said it: there's nothing greater than the French national team. So it's a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team,” Zidane said, as reported by BBC Sport.
Zidane's managerial pedigree includes three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid (2016, 2017, 2018), two FIFA Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, two La Liga titles, and two Spanish Super Cups. His tactical acumen and ability to manage star players have been widely praised, making him one of the most sought-after coaches in world football.
First Challenge Awaits
Zidane's first assignment as France manager will come in September, when Les Bleus face Turkiye in the UEFA Nations League. Beyond that immediate challenge, he carries the responsibility of guiding France to UEFA Euro 2028 and the FIFA World Cup 2030. The French squad, rich with talent including Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, and emerging stars, will look to build on the legacy left by Deschamps, who led the team to the 2018 World Cup title and the 2022 World Cup final.
FIFA's Warm Welcome
FIFA's statement highlighted Zidane's illustrious playing and coaching career, noting that his return to football management is a significant moment for the sport. “FIFA is delighted to welcome Zinedine Zidane back to the international stage. His experience and passion for the game will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of French football,” the statement read.
Related: Jurgen Klopp's New Role
In a related development, FIFA also sent a message to Jurgen Klopp after he was named Germany's new manager. The former Liverpool manager succeeded Julian Nagelsmann, who stepped down after a Round of 32 elimination at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Klopp's appointment marks another high-profile coaching change in international football, with both Zidane and Klopp now tasked with leading their nations to future glory.
