Zinedine Zidane, the newly appointed head coach of the French national side, disclosed that over the past five years he rejected a series of tempting job proposals, insisting that his sole ambition after leaving Real Madrid was to take charge of Les Bleus. In a press conference held on Monday morning, Zidane officially took over the reins from Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after a distinguished twelve‑year tenure that included a World Cup triumph in 2018 and a Nations League victory in 2021. Zidane’s own managerial career has been on pause since he left Real Madrid in 2021, ending his second spell at the Santiago Bernabéu. During that interval, his name surfaced in connection with several high‑profile vacancies, most notably the managerial role at Manchester United, as well as other elite clubs across Europe.
Yet, according to Zidane, “In the last four or five years I received offers to join a club, and I turned them all down because I only wanted the France job. This is the only position I wanted after my Real Madrid chapter.” He explained that his fascination with the French team began long before his appointment.
“I have always looked at the national side not just as a fan but as a future manager. That is why I kept my distance from club projects, even when they were attractive and could have lasted a couple of years.” Zidane added that the decision to finally step forward was triggered by Deschamps’ announcement in early 2025 that he would leave the post after the next World Cup. “The very next day I felt a surge of excitement and told everyone I wanted to be his successor,” he said. The meeting that sealed the deal took place in February 2025 when Zidane sat down with the French Football Federation president, Philippe Diallo.
“We met in February, and that conversation led us to this moment,” Zidane recalled. Diallo later remarked that Zidane’s confidence was evident from the start: “When I met Zinedine in February 2025, after the announcement of Didier’s departure, he said, ‘Mr President, I know how to win.’ That conviction convinced me he had the right mindset to lead the team forward.” Zidane is inheriting a squad that has been consistently competitive on the international stage. Under Deschamps, France reached the final of the 2016 European Championship, finished as runners‑up at the 2022 World Cup, and claimed the 2021 Nations League title. The French side also boasts a deep pool of talent, ranging from seasoned veterans to emerging stars, providing a solid foundation for Zidane’s vision.
When asked about the transition, Zidane praised Deschamps’ legacy while emphasizing his own approach. “The team’s style of play and its spirit were magnificent. I was there in the stands, I felt the energy, and I have no complaints about the way things were done,” he said. “But I will bring my own ideas.
Didier Deschamps is Didier Deschamps, Laurent Blanc is Laurent Blanc, and Zizou is Zizou. I intend to apply what I know best.” He also stressed that continuity will be a priority. “It is not a clean break; I want to preserve the winning culture while adding new elements that suit my philosophy,” Zidane explained.
This balance, he believes, will help France remain a dominant force in world football. Addressing concerns about his lack of experience as a national‑team coach, Zidane was unequivocal: “There is no worry. Managing a country is a completely different challenge from club football, but it does not frighten me.” He highlighted the lifestyle advantages as well, noting that the role allows a better equilibrium between personal life and professional responsibilities.
“It suits me perfectly. I have no issues with the different rhythm of the job.” During his five‑year hiatus, Zidane kept himself engaged with the sport. “I didn’t sit around twiddling my thumbs,” he said.
“I watched more matches than when I was coaching Real Madrid. I studied the French team extensively, and I see enormous potential in the current pool of players.” His analytical period, he believes, will inform his tactical decisions and player selections. Zidane’s track record as a manager includes two La Liga titles and an unprecedented three‑peat of UEFA Champions League trophies with Real Madrid from 2016 to 2018. Those achievements, combined with his illustrious playing career—highlighted by a World Cup win in 1998—lend credence to his claim that he “knows how to win.” Looking ahead, Zidane outlined a broad roadmap.
He plans to blend the technical flair traditionally associated with French football with the disciplined, high‑pressing style that defined his Real Madrid sides. He also intends to give younger talents more opportunities, fostering a pipeline that will sustain success beyond the next World Cup cycle. In summary, Zidane’s appointment marks a new chapter for French football. By turning down club offers and focusing exclusively on the national team, he signals a deep commitment to France’s ambitions.
His blend of experience, confidence, and a clear vision for continuity and innovation suggests that the French squad is poised to continue its tradition of excellence on the global stage.