Zidane promises attacking, flair-driven France

Abdullateef Fowewe

Newly appointed France national football team manager, Zinedine Zidane has outlined a bold, attack-minded vision for France’s national team after his appointment as head coach.

Zidane in an interview on Tuesday noted that he will prioritise goals, flair and leadership when he assumes the role following Didier Deschamps’ departure after the 2026 World Cup.

Zidane, the Real Madrid legend who spent the last 25 years working in Spain as a player and coach, signalled a potential stylistic shift for Les Bleus that could move France toward more dynamic, offensive football reminiscent of his successful club sides.

“How my France team will play? I’m motivated by the game, by going on the attack.

“I was a 10 and what excites me is goals, the game itself. I’ve been in Spain for 25 years and you know what that means.

“On the field I was a leader and now I think I can be one as France’s national team coach,” Zidane said.

Zidane’s appointment set to take effect around September 1, follows France’s post-2026 World Cup transition and represents a new era for a squad that has balanced defensive organisation and pragmatic management under Deschamps with periods of attacking brilliance.

The French Football Federation has not detailed Zidane’s coaching staff or long-term plans, but the incoming coach’s emphasis on leadership and offensive play has already raised expectations among fans eager for a fresh identity for Les Bleus.