Zinedine Zidane is on the verge 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 decision comes as Didier Deschamps, who has been at the helm since 2012, prepares to step down following the tournament.
Zidane, now 53 years old, has an illustrious history in football, both as a player and a manager. He previously managed Real Madrid from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2019 to 2021, during which he secured three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. His playing career is equally impressive, highlighted by winning the Ballon d’Or in 1998 and being part of the French squads that clinched the FIFA World Cup that same year and the UEFA Euro 2000.
Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, has indicated that Zidane’s profile aligns well with the expectations of the national team. “It takes a profile that ticks many boxes and which can also be the subject of support from the French people,” Diallo stated, acknowledging Zidane’s potential impact.
Despite the verbal agreement, Zidane has not yet signed a contract with the Federation Francaise de Football. There are also discussions regarding the composition of his backroom staff, which he reportedly wishes to expand, led by David Bettoni.
The French national team, which last won the FIFA World Cup in 2018, is currently preparing for the upcoming tournament in 2026. France is placed in Group I alongside Senegal and Norway, with their first match scheduled against Senegal on June 16, 2026.
As the football world anticipates Zidane’s return to a managerial role, uncertainties remain. Details regarding the official announcement of his appointment are yet to be confirmed, and both parties still need to finalize the staff arrangements.
France is set to play friendly matches against Brazil on March 27 and Colombia on March 30, 2026, as part of their preparations leading up to the World Cup.
With Zidane’s rich history in football and his previous successes, his appointment could mark a new chapter for the French national team, especially as they aim to reclaim their status on the world stage.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the finalization of Zidane’s contract and the structure of his coaching staff.
