Paris, 19 July (H.S.): French football legend Zinedine Zidane is set to become the new head coach of the France national football team, popularly known as Les Bleus. According to French newspaper L'Équipe, Zidane will take charge of the team from September 1, succeeding Didier Deschamps, whose successful 14-year tenure concluded with the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Deschamps’ tenure officially ended after France’s third-place playoff match against England in Miami on Saturday, where the team suffered a 6-4 defeat.

Didier Deschamps took charge of the French national team in 2012. Under his leadership, France won the 2018 FIFA World Cup title, reached the final of the 2022 World Cup, and advanced to the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup, where they were defeated by Spain.

French Football Federation Pays Tribute to Deschamps

The French Football Federation (FFF), in a message posted on social media platform X, praised Deschamps’ contribution and said, The FFF salutes and thanks Didier Deschamps for the exceptional work he has carried out as head coach of the France national team since 2012. As he prepares to leave his position in the coming days, Deschamps brings to an end nearly 25 years of outstanding service to the French national team and French football. Some careers leave an indelible mark on the history of an institution and a nation.

The federation further stated, Didier Deschamps has been a symbol of discipline, determination, collective spirit and dedication to the blue jersey. Under his leadership, the French team regained credibility, respect and the trust of its supporters. The team won the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Nations League title while reaching the finals of several major tournaments.

The FFF added, Beyond his record of 185 matches and 120 victories, Deschamps created a culture of performance and responsibility that will continue to inspire future generations. He nurtured several emerging international talents, kept the squad united around strong values and strengthened the bond between the French public and the national team.

The federation further highlighted his historic achievements, saying, A captain of the 1998 World Cup-winning team, a winner of the 2000 European Championship, and a World Cup-winning coach two decades later, Didier Deschamps holds a unique place in the history of French football. Very few individuals have contributed so much to France’s blue jersey in both playing and coaching roles.

Concluding its tribute, the FFF said, The federation and all its employees salute his availability, commitment and contribution. His legacy will forever remain alive—from Clairefontaine to the hearts of millions of supporters and volunteers. The FFF expresses its deepest gratitude for his services. Thank you, Didier.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar