JAKARTA - New coach of the French National Team (Timnas), Zinedine Zidane, said he rejected a club offer during his five-year absence from football because coaching Les Bleus was the only thing he wanted.
Zidane got his first coaching job since leaving Real Madrid in 2021 as Didier Deschamps' replacement on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
"For me this is a continuation, a dream. I had several offers during the five years I was away to coach a club, but I rejected them all for the sake of the French team. That's the only thing I want to do," said Zidane.
In the last five years, Zidane has been linked with many clubs - including Manchester United several times.
"I have said it many times, there is nothing more beautiful than the French national team. That is why being the manager of this French team is a joy and, of course, a great pride for me. It is also a responsibility."
"I feel a lot of emotions, I am ready for the challenge. That is what motivates me. Today I have the opportunity to lead this team."
"I will give everything so that this team can win. I also want to congratulate DD (Deschamps) for these incredible years," said Zidane.
In a glittering career as one of the most talented players in the history of football, Zidane won the Ballon d'Or and three FIFA World Player of the Year awards.
Zidane retired as a player in 2006 and then became one of the most successful coaches in football, winning three consecutive Champions Leagues with Real Madrid between 2016 and 2018, as well as two LaLiga titles.
"What motivates me is the game, I am a number 10 player, I like to score goals. I am a leader on the field and now I want to be a leader through experience," said Zidane.
Deschamps - a former team-mate of Zidane - led France for 14 years, taking over in 2012 and leaving after the 2026 World Cup this summer.
Under his leadership, a generation of talented French players won the 2018 World Cup and were runners-up at the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2016.
Zidane will now lead France in this autumn's UEFA Nations League matches, before they begin next year's Euro 2028 qualifying campaign.
France are scheduled to play Turkey, Belgium and Italy in the UEFA Nations League group stage.
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