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Zinedine Zidane confirmed as France national team head coach from September 1, 2026

French sports daily L'Equipe and a leaked FFF document confirm that Zinedine Zidane will officially take over as France's head coach on September 1, 2026, succeeding Didier Deschamps after the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Sports· confirmed How Life Changes ·3 takes · ·rbtfl upd Jul 20, 2026
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The split

The same story, as told by newsrooms in different countries. Their words, attributed and linked.

United States

Yahoo Sports

“Zinedine Zidane will officially take over from Didier Deschamps as France's national team manager on September 1st, according to L'Equipe.”

Anglophone sports wireread the original ↗

Lebanon

Daily Beirut

“Zinedine Zidane will officially become France's head coach on September 1, 2026, succeeding Didier Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup, per leaked FFF document.”

Lebanese Anglophoneread the original ↗

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Summary

Zinedine Zidane will officially become France's head coach on September 1, 2026, succeeding Didier Deschamps after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to L'Equipe and a leaked FFF document. The former Real Madrid manager was the overwhelming choice to replace Deschamps. Zidane, a 1998 World Cup winner with France, takes charge as the national team begins its rebuild after finishing fourth at the tournament, losing to England in the bronze match.

Why it matters

Zidane's appointment ends prolonged succession uncertainty at the FFF. He is one of the most celebrated figures in French football and his appointment carries significant public expectations. France begins its rebuild under Zidane with a squad that reached the 2026 World Cup semi-finals but lost to Spain and finished fourth.

What to watch

  • Zidane's first squad selection and tactical approach
  • Whether key players from the Deschamps era retain their places
  • France's schedule in the new Nations League and World Cup qualifying cycle

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