The French Football Federation held a press conference on Tuesday afternoon to announce the signing of Zinedine Zidane as the new coach of the French national team, to begin a new era.
Didier Deschamps had left his position as coach of the French national team after 14 years, departing after the end of his journey in the World Cup and failing to reach the final match.
The appointment of Zinedine Zidane as coach of the French national team was officially announced today.
French Football Federation President Philippe Diallo said in statements published by the French network "rmc": "We are living an exceptional moment this morning; nearly 14 years have passed since we faced that situation. It is also an exceptional moment for the person sitting next to me (Zidane)".
He added: "I want to praise Deschamps' work because he led our national team to the top for 14 years. He restored the team's image and sporting brilliance. It is important that he receives that recognition at the end of his journey with us".
He continued: "I faced an unprecedented situation after Deschamps announced in January 2025 that he did not wish to continue in his position. I had to find a solution to ensure the continuation of that golden era of French football with the beginning of a new era".
He went on: "I made a commitment to myself when I started thinking about this matter. I said that the federation must be ready when the time comes, and the time has come and the federation is ready. I met with Zidane in February 2025, and since then we have met several times in preparation for his arrival. It was like the meeting of two desires".
He stressed: "Zidane is a legend in French football. He has stated over many years that coaching the French national team is one of his dreams. We succeeded in reaching the agreements that allow us to appear before you now, very quickly".
He explained: "After consulting with the executive committee of the French Federation, I am honored and pleased to announce the appointment of Zidane as coach of the national team for the next four years, until the 2030 World Cup. That contract will take effect on the first of next August, and by agreement with him, the full coaching staff will be announced at the beginning of September".
He concluded: "I hand over the reins of our national team to one of our greatest legends. He has proven as a coach the greatness of his talent and competence. This is the beginning of a new era for us. We are extremely fortunate that circumstances have aligned in a way that allows that legend to continue his journey with the French national team".
