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Zidane takes over as new France head coach

Cyprus Mail · 2026-07-28

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the French national football team, following Didier Deschamps's departure after a fourth-place finish at the 2026 World Cup. • Why it matters: Zidane's appointment marks a significant shift in leadership for the team, as he aims to restore France's competitive edge and inspire a new generation of players after a disappointing World Cup campaign. • What to watch next: Fans and analysts will be closely monitoring Zidane's strategies, player selections, and the team's performance in upcoming fixtures as he seeks to rejuvenate the squad.

**Zidane Takes Over as New Head Coach of France National Football Team**

In a significant development for French football, Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the national team, as announced by the French National Football Team on Tuesday via a post on X. This decision marks a new chapter for the squad following the departure of Didier Deschamps, who concluded his tenure after a disappointing fourth-place finish at the 2026 World Cup.

Zidane, a legendary figure in football, is well-known for his illustrious playing career, particularly with the French national team, where he played a pivotal role in their 1998 World Cup victory. His coaching career is equally impressive, highlighted by his successful stint at Real Madrid, where he led the team to multiple UEFA Champions League titles and domestic successes.

The timing of Zidane's appointment comes just two weeks after Deschamps's exit, which followed a challenging World Cup campaign for France. Under Deschamps, the team faced a high-stakes match against England in the tournament's knockout stage, where they suffered a dramatic 6-4 defeat. This result ultimately sealed Deschamps's fate, ending his long and impactful tenure as head coach.

Deschamps had been at the helm of the national team since 2012, guiding France to significant achievements, including their 2018 World Cup victory. However, the team's recent performance in the 2026 World Cup has prompted a shift in leadership, with the French Football Federation looking to rejuvenate the squad under Zidane's guidance.

As Zidane steps into this crucial role, expectations are high. His experience as a player and a coach will be vital as he seeks to restore the national team's competitive edge on the international stage. The French football community is eager to see how Zidane will shape the team's strategy and player selection in the coming months.

The appointment of Zidane is seen as a move to not only leverage his tactical acumen but also to inspire a new generation of players. His leadership style and ability to motivate athletes are qualities that many believe could reinvigorate the squad after a challenging World Cup experience.

As the French national team prepares for upcoming fixtures, Zidane's first tasks will likely involve assessing the current roster, implementing his tactical philosophy, and preparing the team for future competitions. The football world will be watching closely to see how Zidane's return to the national scene unfolds and whether he can lead France back to the top of international football.

Source: Cyprus Mail
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