French football legend edges closer to dream coaching role as Deschamps era nears conclusion
The French national team set Zinedine Zidane to manage after the 2026 World Cup. This will create a major shift in international football. Reliable sources like AS, Sky Sports, and Fabrizio Romano confirm the 1998 World Cup winner. Also, the French Football Federation have had advanced talks.
While they have not signed a formal contract, they reportedly have a basic framework in place for Zidane’s appointment. The entire arrangement depends on Didier Deschamps finishing his job with the team at the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Deschamps’ Decorated Tenure Approaching Its End
Deschamps has coached the French national team since 2012, leading one of the most successful eras in the nation’s football history. He guided France to win its second World Cup title in 2018 and kept the team globally competitive during his 14 years in charge.
The 56-year-old coach has publicly said he will leave after the 2026 tournament. This creates the opening Zidane has seemingly been waiting for.
A Patient Wait for the Perfect Opportunity
Zidane has not coached since he left Real Madrid in 2021. He had a very successful time there, winning many trophies, including three Champions League titles in a row. Despite receiving numerous lucrative offers from top European clubs, the former midfielder has reportedly declined them all.
The Spanish newspaper AS says Zidane calls leading France his “dream job.” He thinks the position is worth his long break from coaching. The opportunity to guide his homeland’s national team carries symbolic weight that club management simply cannot match.
Respectful Approach During Transition Period
Sources emphasize Zidane’s discreet handling of the situation. Many have linked him to other coaching jobs. But he has remained silent and respectful of Deschamps and the current coaching team. This measured approach ensures no distractions as Deschamps prepares for his final major tournament with France.
Romano said that things could still change. No one has signed an official contract yet. But the verbal agreement between Zidane and the federation shows a clear future plan for both of them.
The Ideal Successor
From the French Football Federation’s perspective, Zidane represents the perfect successor to Deschamps. Zidane is a national icon. He led France to win the 1998 World Cup and proved he is a top coach at Real Madrid. He has the respect and experience to manage a team full of world-class players.
The change from Deschamps to Zidane is like passing a torch. It is between two of French football’s biggest stars. Both men won the World Cup as players and then became successful coaches.
What Happens Next
The timeline seems clear: Deschamps will lead France through the 2026 World Cup, and Zidane will take over the role after that. However, the arrangement can still change until they sign the official documents. For now, French football fans can watch one great era end and a new one begin. Zidane is ready to write the next chapter in the team’s famous history.
