Zinedine Zidane Signs Long-Term Deal as France Head Coach

Zinedine Zidane is set to be announced as the new head coach of the France national team after signing a long-term contract, according to multiple reports. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirms that the legendary midfielder has already put pen to paper on the deal, with a verbal agreement having been in place since November.

Deal Done Since November

According to Fabrizio Romano, Zidane's appointment has "never been in doubt or at risk despite clubs calling," indicating that several top European clubs attempted to lure the World Cup winner back into management. The 1998 France World Cup hero has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, spending five years away from the dugout as reported by The New York Times. Romano states that an official announcement will come "soon," bringing an end to speculation surrounding the France job.

"Zinedine Zidane has already signed his long term contract as new France head coach. Verbal agreement in place since November, never been in doubt or at risk despite clubs calling. Zizou is back."

Zidane Era to Begin After World Cup 2026

Multiple outlets including Punch Newspapers and The Sun Nigeria report that Zidane's contract will run until 2030, suggesting he will lead France through the 2026 and 2030 World Cup cycles. The appointment follows Didier Deschamps' departure after 14 years in charge, as reported by the Hindustan Times. Deschamps' tenure, which beIN SPORTS describes as a "successful legacy," included winning the 2018 World Cup and reaching multiple tournament finals.

Zidane returns to management as one of football's most decorated figures, both as a player and coach. During his time at Real Madrid, he won three consecutive Champions League titles, establishing himself as one of the game's elite managers. His appointment represents a homecoming of sorts, with 247Sports describing it as the beginning of the "Zinedine Zidane Era" in French football.

Reliability: 5/5 — This story is backed by tier-one source Fabrizio Romano confirming the contract is signed, with multiple credible outlets corroborating the appointment and timeline details.

Player profile: Zinédine Zidane

Age

54

Position

Midfield - Attacking Midfield

Height

1,85 m

Foot

both

Nationality

  France   Algeria

Club

Retired

Contract until

-

Market value

-

Peak value

€25.00m (04/10/2004)

Market value development

Transfer history

Player data and market values: Transfermarkt.