Zinedine Zidane is officially the new coach of the France men’s national team, ending five years out of the dugout and taking over a squad that just finished a disappointing fourth at the 2026 World Cup. This isn’t just a coaching change; it’s a seismic shift for Les Bleus, bringing a legend back to the forefront to lead his country.
Zidane’s Return: Five Years Was Too Long
This is huge, people! Zidane, now 54 years old, hasn’t had a coaching job since his second stint with Real Madrid wrapped up way back in 2021. That’s five years where one of the greatest football minds has been sidelined. But let’s be real, his resume is ridiculous. As a player, he’s a former Ballon d’Or winner who lifted the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2000 UEFA European Championship for France. Then, in the dugout for Real Madrid, he snagged multiple UEFA Champions League and LaLiga titles. He’s proven it as a player and as a coach. Now, he’s replacing Didier Deschamps, his former teammate, who stepped down after a decade. This move isn’t just about getting a new face; it’s about bringing in a proven winner who knows how to get it done on the biggest stages.
The Grind Starts Now For Euro 2028
France finished a “disappointing” fourth at the 2026 World Cup. Disappointing? For a team with their talent, that’s practically a failure. Now, Zidane has the chance to right that ship. The clock is already ticking. Preparations for September’s UEFA Nations League games are starting right now. That’s the immediate challenge, putting his stamp on the team and getting them back on track. Then, next year, the Euro 2028 qualification campaign kicks off. Zidane has the opportunity to complete the set, to lead his national team to glory as a coach, just like he did as a player. The expectations are sky-high, and if anyone can meet them, it’s Zizou.
It’s a huge moment for France, with their preparations for September’s UEFA Nations League games kicking off right now. Then it’s on to the Euro 2028 qualification campaign next year. Can Zidane, after five years away, complete the set and lead his national team to glory as a coach? The whole world will be watching.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by ESPN.
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