Les Bleus

The French Football Federation is preparing to announce Zinedine Zidane as the new coach for 'Les Bleus'. Zidane, a member of the legendary 1998 football squad led by former coach Didier Deschamps, is expected to take the role. FRANCE 24's Emily Boyle reports on his iconic status in French football.

Didier Deschamps retired after 14 years as France's national team coach, concluding his tenure with a disappointing World Cup campaign. He led Les Bleus to major international success during his time in charge.

France said goodbye to coach Deschamps after 14 years. The federation released an emotional statement celebrating his contributions, which helped restore France to the top of world football.

The World Cup semifinal between France and Spain coincides with France's national day, following celebrations and a military parade in Paris attended by world leaders. A diplomatic mission in Brussels is hosting a party and soccer screening for the event, with POLITICO covering the proceedings.

French politicians across the political spectrum praised France's World Cup quarterfinal victory over Morocco, with President Emmanuel Macron and National Rally leader Jordan Bardella publicly congratulating the team. No reactions were noted from several 2027 presidential candidates.

The World Cup quarter finals feature a rematch between France (Les Bleus) and Morocco (The Atlas Lions), who previously faced in the 2022 Qatar World Cup with France advancing to the final. The match is described as highly anticipated.

France’s far-right National Rally party has shifted its rhetoric about the national football team, Les Bleus, from criticizing their racial diversity to emphasizing working-class solidarity, reflecting broader efforts to moderate its image. Former leader Jean-Marie Le Pen and his daughter Marine initially dismissed the team as un-French, but the party now avoids overt criticism as the team gains national pride. This evolution aligns with the party’s rebranding from National Front to National Rally.

France's National Rally party has shifted its rhetoric about the national soccer team from racial critiques to working-class solidarity, reflecting broader moderation efforts. The party's leaders, including Jean-Marie and Marine Le Pen, previously criticized the team's diversity but later softened their stance to appeal to center-right voters. This strategic rebranding has helped the party gain credibility as a presidential contender.

The author adopts a French identity during the World Cup, praising France's team for their strong performance, including 13 goals in four games. Key players like Kylian Mbappé (6 goals, 18 in 18 career World Cup games) and emerging stars such as Michael Olise, Désire Doué, and Bradley Barcola are highlighted for their contributions.

France (Les Bleus) aims to improve to a 5-0 record in the World Cup and a 3-0 all-time lead against Paraguay (La Albirroja). Discounted tickets for the match in Philadelphia are available.