# Zidane's France coaching debut

> Zinedine Zidane steps into France's coaching role after World Cup exit, aiming to blend his Real Madrid success with fresh tactics.
- Title: Zidane's France coaching debut · BBC Sport | Shortify
- Summary: Zinedine Zidane steps into France's coaching role after World Cup exit, aiming to blend his Real Madrid success with fresh tactics. Zidane will prioritize…
- Keywords: zinedine zidane, france, didier deschamps, kylian mbappe, real madrid, world cup, nations league, french football, tactical approach, coaching change, seahawks, nfl
- Source: BBC Sport — https://bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c20dxgpjng3o
- Published: 2026-07-28T17:04:09.398+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: zinedine zidane, france, didier deschamps, kylian mbappe, real madrid, world cup, nations league, french football, tactical approach, coaching change, seahawks, nfl
## Zidane's wait
Zidane turned down four or five coaching offers for four years before accepting France's role.

> The national team is the only thing I wanted.
## World Cup exit
France finished fourth at the World Cup after losing to England in the play-off round.
## Zidane's background
Zidane won three Champions Leagues with Real Madrid and led France to 1998 World Cup victory.
## Mbappe's reaction
Mbappe called Zidane's coaching role 'like a film' and emphasized rest before leadership decisions.

> The most important thing for him now is to rest, we'll have the chance to speak in September.
## Tactical approach
Zidane avoids tactical details, focusing on player meetings and gradual implementation of his style.

> I can't explain to you in just a couple of words how we're going win.
## New faces
Zidane called up five uncapped players for the international break to test new approaches.
## Continuity
Zidane aims to blend his predecessor's attacking style with his own tactical expertise.

> I'm going to try do what I know how to, but it won't be a complete break either.
## Player confidence
Zidane's reputation as a former Ballon d'Or winner inspires trust among players and fans.

> He is more than fit to manage Les Bleus, given what he did at Real Madrid with great players and big egos.
## First test
France faces Turkey on Friday, followed by Belgium and Italy in the Nations League.
## Key takeaway

Zidane will prioritize player development and attacking play while maintaining continuity with Deschamps' setup.