Zinedine Zidane, the freshly appointed head coach of the French national side, disclosed that over the past five years he turned down a series of tempting job offers because his sole ambition was to lead Les Bleus. The announcement of his appointment came during a press conference on Monday morning, following the resignation of Didier Deschamps. Since stepping away from his second spell as Real Madrid manager, Zidane has been out of a coaching position for five years. During that interval, his name surfaced in connection with several high‑profile vacancies across the globe, including the managerial role at Manchester United.
Yet, as he explained in his inaugural briefing as France boss, "In the last four or five years I received offers to take charge of clubs, and I rejected every single one because my heart was set on the France national team. This is the only job I wanted to pursue after my Real Madrid chapter." Zidane emphasized that his affection for the French side was not merely that of a fan but also that of a prospective manager. "I've always looked at the national team through a fan’s lens, but I also imagined myself at the helm. That’s why I refused any club appointment," he said.
He added that he had been presented with attractive projects that could have kept him busy for two or three years, but he deliberately kept his distance, waiting for the right moment to step into the role of national team coach. When Deschamps announced his intention to step down after the 2025 World Cup, Zidane’s enthusiasm surged. "The day after Deschamps said he would leave, I felt a surge of excitement and told everyone I wanted to be his successor," Zidane recalled. He met with the French Football Federation president in February 2025, a meeting that ultimately led to his appointment.
Zidane now inherits a French side that has enjoyed a highly successful era under Deschamps. Over a twelve‑year tenure, France captured the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League, while also finishing as runners‑up at Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup.
Zidane, however, reminded the federation that he also brings a proven record of winning at the highest level. As a Real Madrid manager, he secured two La Liga crowns and guided the club to three consecutive UEFA Champions League triumphs between 2016 and 2018. French FA president Philippe Diallo praised Zidane’s appointment, stating, "I told him it is a tremendous honour and a massive responsibility, given the spectacular achievements of recent years. We needed someone who could inspire confidence and steer us forward for the years ahead.
When I met Zinedine in February 2025, after Deschamps’ announcement, he said, ‘Mr President, I know how to win.’ That conviction convinced me he has the desire and belief to lead the team." Reflecting on Deschamps’ legacy, Zidane said, "The team’s style and run were magnificent. I was there in the stands, sharing the experience with the fans, and I have no complaints about how things unfolded." He also stressed that his approach will not be a radical break from the past. "Deschamps is Deschamps, Laurent Blanc is Laurent Blanc, and Zizou is Zizou.
I will try to do what I know best, while respecting the continuity that has brought France success." Addressing concerns about his lack of experience in international management, Zidane was unequivocal: "There is no worry. Managing a national side is a completely different job from club coaching, but it does not frighten me.
I see it as a perfect fit for my life balance and my football philosophy." Zidane explained that he has not been idle during his five‑year hiatus. "I didn’t sit around twiddling my thumbs. I watched more matches than I did while coaching Real Madrid.
I studied the French national team extensively and saw the immense talent that exists within the squad." He highlighted the depth of the player pool, noting that France possesses a blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned professionalism. "The squad is bursting with potential. We have a generation that can compete with anyone in the world, and I intend to harness that energy," Zidane said.
Looking ahead, Zidane outlined a vision that balances tactical innovation with the traditional French flair. He plans to implement a possession‑based system that encourages creativity while maintaining defensive solidity.
"We will aim to dominate the ball, create chances through quick interchanges, and stay compact when we lose possession," he explained. Zidane also spoke about the importance of nurturing young talent. He intends to keep an open door for emerging players, giving them opportunities in friendlies and qualifiers to accelerate their development. "France must always be a pipeline for the next generation.
My job is to ensure that the transition from youth to senior level is seamless," he added. In terms of preparation for upcoming fixtures, Zidian said the coaching staff will conduct thorough analyses of opponents, focusing on both tactical patterns and psychological aspects.
"We will study the opposition meticulously, but we will also work on the mental resilience of our players. Winning at the international level requires both technical skill and the right mindset," he noted.
Finally, Zidane expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to give his all for the nation. "I am honoured to wear this badge, and I will work tirelessly to bring glory to France. The journey ahead will be challenging, but I am ready to give everything for the tricolor," he concluded.