Zidane Signs Long-Term Deal As France Head Coach

Zinedine Zidane has officially signed a long-term contract to become the new head coach of the French national team, taking over from Didier Deschamps following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The former Real Madrid boss is expected to begin a new era with Les Bleus after Deschamps’ final match in charge ended in a defeat to England in the World Cup third-place play-off.

Zidane’s appointment has been anticipated for months, with reports indicating that he reached a verbal agreement with the French Football Federation (FFF) as far back as November 2025. Despite interest from several club sides during that period, the World Cup-winning midfielder remained committed to succeeding Deschamps.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development on X, stating: “Zinedine Zidane has already signed his long-term contract as new France head coach. Verbal agreement in place since November, never been in doubt or at risk despite clubs calling. Zizou is back.”

Zidane returns to management for the first time since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. During his time at the Spanish club, he won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, two La Liga crowns, and several other major trophies, cementing his status as one of football’s most successful managers.

His appointment marks the start of a new chapter for France, with expectations high that he can build on the country’s recent success on the international stage.