Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as the new manager of the French National Team.
The former Real Madrid manager takes over from Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after 14 years in charge, following the recent FIFA World Cup, which saw Les Bleus reached the semi finals, where they lost to eventual winners, Spain.
Zidane, who helped France win the 1998 FIFA World Cup in their home country, was appointed by the France Football Federation on Tuesday, agreeing a four year deal, taking him until at least the end of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
He will officially take the job next month, and his first matches in charge taking place in France's Nations League campaign, which sees them face Turkey, Belgium and Italy in the autumn.
"I have often said, 'There is nothing greater than the French national team", Zidane said in a statement. "It is therefore a joy – and obviously a source of great pride – to become the head coach of this French team. It is also a responsibility. Needless to say, I have great ambitions for the French national team!".
On this appointment, FFF President, Philippe Diallo hailed Zidane as one of the all time great players to play for France, and said his appointment was "source of immense pride" for the organisation.
He added: "It marks the coming together of a legend in the history of ‘Les Bleus’ – who has gone on to become one of the most decorated and respected coaches of his generation – and a squad with rare potential, driven by the highest ambitions", (all quotes according to RTÉ).
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In a stellar playing career, Zinedine Zidane earned 108 caps for France, helping them win the European Championships in 2000 to go with that World Cup triumph in 1998.
He also helped France reach the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, where they lost to Italy on penalties, and Zidane was famously sent off for headbutting Italy's Marco Matterazzi, in what was his last game as a player.
Zidane is also renowned for guiding Real Madrid for three Champions League titles in a row, managing the Spanish giants for two spells in 2016 and 2021. He also won two La Liga titles in those spells.
