Zinedine Zidane is on the brink of a significant career move, having reached a verbal agreement to become the head coach of the French national team after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This development comes as Didier Deschamps, who has led the team since 2012, prepares to step down after an impressive 14-year tenure.
Zidane, a legendary figure in football, has a storied history with the French national team, having won the FIFA World Cup in 1998 and UEFA Euro 2000. His managerial experience includes two successful stints at Real Madrid, where he won multiple Champions League titles. At 53 years old, Zidane’s return to the helm of the national team is highly anticipated.
Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, has emphasized the importance of finding a coach who resonates with the French public, stating, “It takes a profile that ticks many boxes and which can also be the subject of support from the French people.” Zidane’s name has long been associated with the national team, and his potential appointment is seen as a move that could unify fans and players alike.
While Zidane has not yet signed a contract, the groundwork for his appointment is being laid. Reports indicate that he is seeking to expand his backroom staff, potentially including David Bettoni, who has worked closely with him in the past. This strategic move could enhance the team’s performance as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup.
France’s first match in the 2026 World Cup is scheduled against Senegal on June 16, 2026, and the team is currently placed in Group I alongside Senegal and Norway. The anticipation surrounding Zidane’s leadership is palpable, especially considering France’s last World Cup victory in 2018.
However, uncertainties remain. Details regarding Zidane’s official appointment and the finalization of his coaching staff are yet to be confirmed. As the football world watches closely, the excitement builds for what Zidane’s leadership could mean for the future of French football.
In the interim, France is set to play friendly matches against Brazil on March 27 and Colombia on March 30, 2026, providing a platform for the team to prepare for the challenges ahead.
As Zidane steps into this pivotal role, the legacy of Didier Deschamps will loom large, but the hope is that Zidane will bring a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of ambition to the national team.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the official announcement and the specifics of Zidane’s contract with the French Football Federation.
