French football icon Zinedine Zidane is reportedly on the verge of a sensational return to management, with strong indications suggesting he will become the next manager of the French national team.
The End of an Era for Deschamps
Current manager Didier Deschamps, who has led Les Bleus since 2012, is expected to step down from his position after this summer's European Championship in Germany. Despite his contract running until 2026, the French Football Federation appears ready to make a change regardless of France's performance at the tournament.
Zidane's Long-Awaited Return
The legendary former Real Madrid manager has been out of work since leaving the Spanish giants in 2021, turning down several high-profile opportunities while waiting for what he described as the "right project." The chance to lead his national team appears to be that perfect fit.
Zidane's managerial credentials speak for themselves, having guided Real Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League titles during his two spells in charge. His potential appointment would mark a homecoming for the 1998 World Cup winner, who scored twice in the final that delivered France their first world title.
Why Now Makes Sense
Several factors point toward this being the ideal timing for Zidane's appointment:
- The natural conclusion of Deschamps' successful 12-year tenure
- Zidane's availability after his extended break from management
- The opportunity to build around France's golden generation of talent
- Growing sentiment that the team needs fresh tactical ideas
What This Means for French Football
Should the appointment materialise, Zidane would inherit one of the most talented squads in international football, featuring superstars like Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Aurélien Tchouaméni. His task would be to guide this generation to success at the 2026 World Cup in North America.
The potential transition represents one of the most significant managerial changes in recent international football history, pitting two French legends against each other in a battle to define the next chapter of Les Bleus' story.
