Zinedine Zidane Confirmed as France Head Coach

Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as the new head coach of the France national team. The appointment follows the conclusion of Didier Deschamps' 14-year tenure, which ended after France's exit in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup. Zidane, who has been out of management since 2021, will lead the nation through the 2030 World Cup qualifiers.

A New Era for Les Bleus

Zidane, a World Cup winner with France in 1998 and widely regarded as one of the country's greatest players, expressed his pride at taking on the role. "There's nothing greater than the French national team," he stated. "So it's a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team." He acknowledged the responsibility and thanked the French Football Federation president, Philippe Diallo, and the executive committee for their confidence. Diallo described Zidane as a "legend" and a "respected coach" whose arrival signifies a meeting of history and potential for the team.

Read Next in Barnet Press3 min read

Islington Covid Positivity Rate Falls After Initial Spike

Council attributes initial high figures to low testing volumes, not a borough-wide surge.

Deschamps concluded his 14-year period in charge, during which he guided France to three major finals and secured the World Cup title in 2018. Zidane's first competitive match as manager will be a Nations League fixture against Turkey on 25 September.

Managerial Success at Real Madrid

Zidane's managerial career includes significant success at Real Madrid. He took over the first team in January 2016 and led them to three consecutive Champions League titles, a feat not achieved in the Champions League era since Bayern Munich in 1976. During his first spell, he also won La Liga in the 2016-17 season. He returned to Madrid in March 2019 and secured another league title in the 2019-20 campaign. He departed again at the end of the 2020-21 season after a trophyless year.

Related Borough Coverage4 min read

TfL under‑investment leaves commuters losing 830,000 hours in April‑May 2026

A £6.5 billion renewals backlog and spending below the required level have driven delays that affect Barnet residents and the wider capital

A Legendary Playing Career

As a player, Zidane enjoyed a distinguished career. He joined Real Madrid in 2001 for a then-world record fee and scored a memorable volleyed winner in the 2002 Champions League final. For the French national team, he scored two headed goals in the 1998 World Cup final victory. He was also part of the squad that won Euro 2000. His final professional match was the 2006 World Cup final, where he was sent off in extra time.