France hires Zinedine Zidane as men's national soccer team coach

Key Points:

• Zinedine Zidane was officially announced as France’s new national football team coach, signing a four-year contract and replacing Didier Deschamps, who stepped down after the 2026 World Cup.
• Zidane expressed strong emotions and excitement about the appointment, calling it the happiest day of his coaching career and emphasizing his desire to lead the French team after turning down club offers since leaving Real Madrid in 2021.
• French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo hailed Zidane’s hiring as an exceptional moment, highlighting his legendary status in French soccer and the potential for a new playing style under Zidane’s leadership.
• Zidane’s first matches as coach will be Nations League games against Turkey and Belgium in late September, with his home debut at Stade de France against Italy on October 2, a match that holds personal significance for him.
• Zidane’s illustrious playing career included leading France to World Cup and Euro victories, and despite an infamous 2006 World Cup final incident, he remains a beloved figure with a strong connection to French football history.