Zidane finally lands dream France job after five-year wait

After turning down multiple offers, Zidane takes over as France boss, succeeding Deschamps.

Z. Zidane

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What happened. Zinedine Zidane was unveiled as the new France national team manager, succeeding Didier Deschamps after 14 years.

• Zidane turned down several offers in the last four to five years.
• Talks with French authorities began in February 2025.
• Deschamps will step down after the 2026 World Cup.

“The national team is the only thing I wanted.”

— Zinedine Zidane

Zidane aims to keep France winning but plans to do things differently.

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