Paris, July 28 -- Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new manager of the France national team, the Federation Francaise de Football (FFF) announced on Tuesday.

Zidane was widely expected to succeed Didier Deschamps, whose 14-year tenure came to an end following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Deschamps had announced early last year that he would leave the role, opening the door for Zidane's return to management. The former France captain has signed a four-year contract.

Regarded as one of France's greatest-ever players, Zidane transitioned into coaching after retiring from football. Four years after hanging up his boots, he returned to Real Madrid as a special adviser to the first team.

In 2013, he became assistant coach under Carlo Anc...