Zinédine Zidane is about to open a new chapter in his prestigious career. After making history as a player and then as a club coach, the former Real Madrid manager will officially take charge of the French national team. His tenure as head coach of Les Bleus will begin on September 1, a date eagerly awaited by French supporters. This appointment symbolizes the start of a new era for the national team, which aims to remain among the best football nations in the world after several years filled with success and international finals.
The arrival of Zinédine Zidane on the French bench is generating immense anticipation. Since leaving Real Madrid, where he won numerous trophies, his name has frequently come up as a candidate to succeed the current coach. Many observers viewed this appointment as a logical continuation of his journey. Now, the 1998 World Cup champion will bear the heavy responsibility of guiding Les Bleus in upcoming international competitions, with the goal of continuing the tradition of excellence in French football.
Zidane’s first official challenge will be on September 25 with an away match in Turkey. This meeting will mark his baptism of fire at the helm of the national team. Playing away in a notoriously intense atmosphere will be an interesting first test to gauge the new coach’s ability to quickly convey his ideas. French supporters will closely follow this first encounter, eager to see the tactical choices, key players, and philosophy Zidane wishes to implement.
This first match will also be an opportunity to observe the initial strong decisions from the former number 10 of Les Bleus. Team composition, playing system, management of key players, and integration of young talents: every detail will be scrutinized by the media and football fans. Zinédine Zidane is known for his calm management style, his communication skills with players, and his ability to handle pressure during big moments. These qualities will be essential for succeeding in this new mission.
A few days later, on October 2, Zinédine Zidane will lead his first home match. Les Bleus will host Italy in a prestigious clash that brings back many memories for football enthusiasts. Encounters between the two nations have often been filled with emotion and intensity. This match will allow French supporters to warmly welcome their new coach while discovering his team in front of their home crowd.
This duel against the Squadra Azzurra will hold particular significance. Beyond its prestige, it will provide a true indicator of the competitiveness of Les Bleus under Zidane’s leadership. Facing an Italian team known for its tactical discipline and defensive solidity, France will need to present a convincing performance to kick off this new adventure in the best possible way.
🚨🚨 ZINÉDINE ZIDANE 🇫🇷 WILL BEGIN HIS TENURE AS HEAD COACH OF LES BLEUS ON SEPTEMBER 1! 👔
His first match will be an away game in Turkey 🇹🇷 on September 25.
His first home match will take place on October 2, against Italy 🇮🇹.
🗞️ @lequipe pic.twitter.com/84XYJSMuWK
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) July 18, 2026
The former Madrid coach inherits an extremely talented squad, filled with players from the biggest European clubs. His high-level experience could help this generation reach new heights. Used to managing global stars at Real Madrid, Zidane has a profile that naturally commands respect. His understanding of modern football and his ability to unite a group will be major assets in building an ambitious team.
Expectations will naturally be immense for someone who remains one of the greatest legends of French football. Every press conference, every player selection, and every result will be analyzed closely. But Zinédine Zidane has already proven throughout his career that he can thrive under intense pressure. His goal now will be to lead Les Bleus to new successes and prepare for the next major international challenges with the same rigor that has defined his reputation.
