Zinedine Zidane has reached a verbal agreement to become the head coach of the French national team after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This move signals a significant shift in leadership for a team that has been under the guidance of Didier Deschamps since 2012.
Deschamps has led France through 14 years of ups and downs, including their victorious campaign in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Zidane, a legendary figure in French football, previously managed Real Madrid from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2019 to 2021, winning multiple titles.
At 53 years old, Zidane is not only a celebrated player, having won the Ballon d’Or in 1998, but also a proven coach. His experience includes being part of the France squads that lifted the FIFA World Cup in 1998 and UEFA Euro 2000.
Philippe Diallo, president of the Federation Francaise de Football, stated, “It takes a profile that ticks many boxes and which can also be the subject of support from the French people.” This indicates a strong backing for Zidane’s potential appointment.
Despite the verbal agreement, Zidane has not yet signed a contract with the federation. He is reportedly seeking an expanded backroom staff, led by David Bettoni, to assist him in his new role.
France is set to compete in Group I for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Senegal and Norway. Their first match is scheduled against Senegal on June 16, 2026.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the official announcement of Zidane’s appointment, and both parties are yet to finalize agreements on the coaching staff. Zidane has been out of work since leaving Madrid for the second time in 2021, raising questions about his next steps.
As the football world watches closely, the anticipation builds for Zidane’s return to the national stage. His legacy as a player and coach makes this a pivotal moment for French football.
