Zinedine Zidane given unprecedented security detail as France manager

Zinedine Zidane has been given special security arrangements not previously provided to a France manager, following his appointment as the new head coach of the national team.

The measures reflect the extraordinary popularity of the France great, both in his homeland and internationally, despite his lengthy absence from club and international management.

Minutes after announcing his first squad as France manager, Zidane appeared outside the French Football Federation’s headquarters in Paris. About 100 supporters had gathered to welcome him, singing, chanting and pushing forward in an effort to get close to him and take photographs.

Among the chants from the crowd was: “Zizou, I love you.”

The reception illustrated the level of enthusiasm surrounding Zidane’s arrival in the role and the special place he continues to hold among France supporters. His first public appearance as manager attracted significant interest from both fans and the media.

According to French newspaper L’Equipe, the French Football Federation has spent recent weeks discussing security arrangements for Zidane, who is regarded as one of France’s most important sporting figures.

Zidane will reportedly receive greater protection than his predecessor Didier Deschamps. A personal bodyguard will accompany him, while a dedicated security officer will also be assigned to him as part of the team put together by the French Football Federation.

The arrangements are similar to those previously used to protect Kylian Mbappe during the most recent World Cup, reflecting expectations of large crowds around Zidane during his new role with France.

French Football Federation officials do not associate the increased security with any specific threat. Instead, they say the intention is to give Zidane as much calm and comfort as possible as public and media attention grows around his return to the spotlight through the national team.

The heightened arrangements come as Zidane begins a new era with France in a role that has generated exceptional interest. The 1998 Ballon d’Or winner has moved from being one of the most celebrated players in the history of the national team to the person responsible for leading it from the touchline.

His appointment has therefore brought together two defining parts of his career: the former France midfield star who became a national sporting icon, and the manager now entrusted with guiding the team.