By Football legend Zinedine Zidane has reached a verbal agreement to become the next head coach of the France national football team, according to multiple reports in France. The former Real Madrid manager is widely expected to succeed current coach Didier Deschamps, who is set to step down after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Sources indicate that while no formal contract has been signed, an agreement in principle has been reached between Zidane and the French Football Federation. The federation is keen to ensure a smooth transition of leadership, with Deschamps remaining in charge through the upcoming World Cup cycle.
Deschamps, who has managed France since 2012, has enjoyed a highly successful tenure, leading the team to victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and establishing Les Bleus as one of the dominant forces in international football. His anticipated departure after the 2026 tournament has long fueled speculation about his successor, with Zidane consistently emerging as the top candidate.
Zidane, 53, has been without a managerial role since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, following a trophy-laden spell at the Spanish giants. During his time in charge, he guided the club to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, along with two La Liga titles, cementing his reputation as one of the most successful managers of his generation.
A World Cup winner with France in 1998, Zidane is regarded as one of the greatest players in the nation’s history. His potential appointment is seen as a symbolic and strategic move, aimed at maintaining continuity while ushering in a new era for the national team.
While an official announcement is expected only after the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reports suggest that internal preparations are already underway to facilitate Zidane’s transition into the role. If finalized, Zidane’s appointment would mark a significant new chapter for France, as the federation looks to build on more than a decade of success under Deschamps and remain competitive on the global stage.
