Zinedine Zidane Replaces Didier Deschamps As France Head Coach

  

Zinedine Zidane has returned to management, assuming the role of head coach of the French national team. 

France failed to reach the final of the just-completed FIFA World Cup. They were beaten by England in the third-place playoff, losing out to England for the bronze medal. Until this year's edition, they had reached the final back-to-back, winning the golden trophy in 2018 and losing to Argentina in 2022. 

The former Real Madrid manager agreed to a four-year contract, replacing Didier Deschamps. The latter was appointed to replace Tomas Tuchel, who left the team after 14 years in charge. Zidane took a break from management after his spell at Real Madrid, where he won the UEFA Champions League three consecutive times and the UEFA Super Cup back-to-back. 

"Many elements come into play in order to win; it's a global context. I know what I need to win," said Zinedine, recalling France's performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. "I had some offers during the five years I was away to take charge of a club." 

Ahead of his appointment, he was speculated to be closely followed by Manchester United, who were interested in securing a deal. This season, he was also deemed the suitor to replace Michael Carrick. However, that was not the first time Manchester United would be linked to him. They were also linked to him before Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's appointment in 2018.