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New France head coach Zinedine Zidane has shared that he declined numerous job offers over the past five years because his heart was set on leading Les Bleus.
Zidane officially became France’s head coach in a press conference on Monday morning, following Didier Deschamps’ resignation.
The World Cup-winning midfielder has taken a five-year hiatus since his second term at Real Madrid and was considered for various prestigious positions in global football, including Manchester United.
“In the last four or five years, I received offers from clubs, but I turned them all down for the France national team,” Zidane stated during his inaugural press conference as head coach. “This role was the only one I envisioned for myself after my time at Real Madrid.
“I have always viewed the France national team not only as a fan but also as a future manager. This perspective guided my decision to forgo other club opportunities.
“I committed to the idea that my sole ambition after Real Madrid was to lead the French national team. I deliberately distanced myself from those clubs, even though I had exciting projects that I could have pursued for two or three years.
“However, when Deschamps announced his intention to step down after the next World Cup in early 2025, I immediately expressed my eagerness to be his successor.
“This meeting with the president in February 2025 has brought us to this moment.”
Zidane is poised to build on the successful legacy of Deschamps, who led the French national team for 12 years, culminating in a World Cup victory in 2018 and a Nations League win in 2021, along with impressive runner-up finishes in the European Championships and World Cup in 2016 and 2022.
Zidane assured the French Football Federation of his winning mentality. During his tenure at Real Madrid, he secured two La Liga titles and triumphed in three consecutive Champions League tournaments from 2016 to 2018.
French FA president Phillippe Diallo remarked, “I conveyed to him that it’s a tremendous honor and a significant responsibility, given the remarkable journey of the past few years. We needed someone who could inspire confidence and guide us forward, and I believe Zinedine is that person.”
In their February 2025 conversation, Diallo recalled Zidane saying, “Mr. President, I know how to win.” This statement reinforced Diallo’s belief in Zidane’s readiness to lead the team.
Reflecting on the transition from Deschamps, Zidane expressed, “I admired the team’s performance and style of play. I experienced it firsthand and enjoyed it as a fan. There are no grievances about the past.
“Moving forward, we will approach things differently. Didier Deschamps is unique, and Laurent Blanc has his own legacy. I am Zizou, and I will implement my understanding of the game.
“This is not a complete break; I aim to ensure continuity so that the French team continues its success.”
Zidane also emphasized that he does not fear the challenges of managing a national team for the first time, recognizing the immense potential within the France squad.
“There’s nothing to worry about,” Zidane affirmed. “This role differs significantly from club coaching, but it excites me.
“I will balance my personal life with my responsibilities to the French national team, which aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I haven’t been idle over the past five years; I’ve analyzed more matches than during my time at Real Madrid. I closely followed the French national team, and I see tremendous potential.”
