France are on the verge of ushering in a new era with Zinedine Zidane poised to take over as head coach of the national team on a deal reportedly running until June 2030.
The move was disclosed by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, who announced on Tuesday that the former Real Madrid boss has completed the formalities of his appointment and will be officially introduced in the coming days.
Romano said Zidane has signed his contract and is set to begin work with Les Bleus, ending years of speculation linking the French legend with the role.
The former midfield maestro is expected to guide France through several major tournaments, including the 2027 UEFA Nations League, UEFA Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Zidane returns to coaching after a four-year absence, having left Real Madrid in 2021 following his second stint in charge of the Spanish club.
His managerial record at the Santiago Bernabéu ranks among the most successful in modern football. He steered Madrid to three successive UEFA Champions League crowns, won two La Liga titles and claimed a host of other domestic and international honours.
Before establishing himself as an elite coach, Zidane enjoyed an illustrious playing career with France. He inspired the country to its first FIFA World Cup title in 1998, scoring twice in the final against Brazil, and later helped Les Bleus win the UEFA European Championship in 2000.
The appointment has long been anticipated, with Zidane frequently mentioned as the natural successor to Didier Deschamps. Deschamps, who has managed France since 2012 and led the team to the 2018 FIFA World Cup title, is expected to step down after the 2026 World Cup, clearing the way for Zidane to assume the role.
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