Kylian Mbappe has welcomed Zinedine Zidane following the French legend’s appointment as the new head coach of the France national team. The Real Madrid forward shared the French Football Federation’s official announcement on Instagram shortly after the decision was made public.

Alongside the post, Mbappe wrote, “Bienvenue chez toi”, which means “welcome home”. The short message reflected the beginning of a new chapter for Les Bleus after France’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in disappointment.

A partnership years in the making

Mbappe has often spoken about his admiration for Zidane, who was one of his football heroes while growing up in Bondy. Over the years, the France captain has repeatedly expressed his desire to work under the former Real Madrid manager.

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Their connection dates back to Mbappe’s teenage years when Zidane was involved during the young forward’s visit to Real Madrid’s training facilities, long before his eventual move to the Spanish club.

The pair crossed paths again in 2024 at the Santiago Bernabeu during Mbappe’s official unveiling as a Real Madrid player. Zidane remained closely linked to one of the biggest milestones in the forward’s career, fulfilling a dream he had spoken about since childhood.

Mbappe had also backed the possibility of Zidane replacing Didier Deschamps before the appointment became official, making his social media response a fitting reaction to the announcement.

France captaincy decision still pending

One of the biggest talking points following Zidane’s arrival is whether Mbappe will continue as captain of the national team. According to Le Parisien, the 27-year-old is expected to keep the armband under the new coach.

Mbappe has led France since March 2023 after Didier Deschamps handed him the captaincy following Hugo Lloris’ retirement from international football.

France's Kylian Mbappe during the FIFA World Cup 2026
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France’s Kylian Mbappe during the FIFA World Cup 2026 | X [433]

However, Zidane chose not to confirm that decision during his official presentation. The new France coach explained that he has not yet spoken with Mbappe and believes the squad should first recover after a demanding club season and the World Cup.

He added that discussions with Mbappe and the rest of the France players will take place when the squad gathers again in September.

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Mbappe remains central to France’s plans

Mbappe begins the Zidane era as the leading figure in the French national team. The Real Madrid striker is France’s all-time leading goalscorer with 66 international goals.

He also finished as the top scorer at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending the tournament with 10 goals. Despite his impressive performances, France were unable to challenge for the title and concluded the competition in fourth place.

The result also marked the end of Didier Deschamps’ 14-year spell in charge of the national team.

Zidane begins a new challenge

Deschamps leaves behind a remarkable record that includes the 2018 FIFA World Cup title, the 2021 UEFA Nations League trophy, and runner-up finishes at Euro 2016 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Zidane now returns to coaching after stepping away from management following his departure from Real Madrid in 2021. His first game as France head coach is scheduled for September 25, when Les Bleus travel to Turkiye for the opening match of their new UEFA Nations League campaign.

For Mbappe, it will be the first opportunity to represent France under the coach he admired throughout his childhood, beginning a partnership that many French football fans have anticipated for years.

FAQs

What did Kylian Mbappe say after Zinedine Zidane’s appointment?

Mbappe welcomed Zidane by posting “Bienvenue chez toi” (“welcome home”) on his Instagram story.

Will Kylian Mbappe remain France captain under Zidane?

Zidane has not confirmed the decision yet, although reports suggest Mbappe is expected to keep the captaincy.