Zinedine Zidane, the newly appointed head coach of the French national team, disclosed that he turned down a series of tempting job offers over the past five years because his sole ambition was to lead Les Bleus. In a press conference held on Monday morning, Zidane explained that after Didier Deschamps announced his intention to step down following the 2025 World Cup, he immediately expressed his desire to succeed him.
Zidane, a World Cup‑winning midfielder who last managed Real Madrid in 2020‑2021, has been out of a coaching position for half a decade. During that interval, his name was linked to several high‑profile vacancies, including the managerial post at Manchester United and other elite clubs across Europe. Yet, as he told reporters, "In the last four or five years I received offers to take charge of clubs, but I refused them all because my heart was set on the France national team.
This is the only job I wanted after my spell at Real Madrid." He elaborated that his attachment to the French side was not merely that of a fan but also that of a prospective leader. "I have always looked at the France team both as a supporter and as a future manager.
That is why I stayed away from club projects, even when they were attractive and could have lasted two or three years," he said. When Deschamps announced his resignation early in 2025, Zidane said he felt a surge of excitement and promptly approached the French Football Federation (FFF) to express his interest.
The meeting with FFF president Philippe Diallo took place in February 2025 and set the stage for Zidane's appointment. Diallo recalled the conversation: "When Zinedine arrived, he told me, 'Mr President, I know how to win.' That confidence convinced me that he has the right mindset to continue our success." Zidane inherits a team that has enjoyed a remarkable era under Deschamps. Over a 12‑year tenure, France captured the 2018 World Cup, the 2021 Nations League, and reached the finals of Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup.
The French side also boasts a deep pool of talent, ranging from established stars to emerging prospects, giving Zidane a solid foundation on which to build. The former Real Madrid boss highlighted his own track record as evidence of his ability to deliver trophies.
While in charge of the Spanish giants, Zidane secured two La Liga titles and guided the team to three consecutive UEFA Champions League victories between 2016 and 2018. He emphasized that his experience in high‑pressure environments will be valuable for the national team, even though the role differs from club management.
Addressing concerns about stepping into a national‑team job for the first time, Zidane was unequivocal: "There is no fear. Coaching a country is a completely different challenge, but I am comfortable with it. I have spent the past five years studying matches, watching the French squad closely, and I see enormous potential." He also spoke about continuity and respect for his predecessor.
"Deschamps' style and the team's recent performances were magnificent. I was there, I felt the energy, and I have no complaints about how things unfolded.
However, I will bring my own ideas while preserving the strengths that have made France successful. It's not about a clean break; it's about evolution." Zidane promised a balanced approach that would allow him to manage the national team without sacrificing his personal life.
"The job fits me perfectly. It is different from club coaching, and I have no issues with that. I will maintain a healthy equilibrium between my family and my responsibilities with Les Bleus," he affirmed.
Looking ahead, Zidane outlined a vision focused on nurturing young talent, implementing a flexible tactical system, and fostering a winning mentality. He noted that he has already begun analyzing the squad's depth, identifying areas for improvement, and planning training camps that will emphasize both technical skill and collective cohesion. In summary, Zidane's appointment marks a new chapter for French football. By declining numerous club offers to wait for the national team role, he demonstrates a rare level of dedication.
With a decorated coaching résumé, a clear understanding of the French talent pool, and a commitment to continuity blended with innovation, Zidane aims to keep France at the pinnacle of world football for years to come.