Zinedine Zidane Poised for France Manager Role After 2026 World Cup
Football icon Zinedine Zidane is reportedly preparing for a highly anticipated return to management by agreeing to take charge of the French national team after the 2026 World Cup. The legendary former player, who has been out of coaching since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, is said to have secured a verbal agreement for the prestigious position.
Long-Awaited Opportunity for Les Bleus
Zidane, now 53, has long expressed his ambition to lead the French national side, a dream that was previously blocked by his former teammate Didier Deschamps. Deschamps, who has served as head coach since 2012, announced in January 2025 that he will step down after guiding France through the 2026 tournament in North America. During his tenure, Deschamps achieved remarkable success, including winning the 2018 World Cup—making him the third person to win the competition as both a player and manager—as well as securing the 2021 Nations League and reaching the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar.
Zidane's Coaching Pedigree and Patience
Since departing Real Madrid, where he enjoyed two decorated spells as manager, Zidane has deliberately avoided other coaching roles, turning down offers from top clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea. His patience appears to have paid off, with reports indicating he has a verbal agreement to assume the France job ahead of the qualification cycle for the 2028 European Championship, although no formal contract has been signed yet. Zidane's managerial credentials are impressive, having won two LaLiga titles, three Champions League trophies, and two Spanish Super Cups during his time at Real Madrid.
Public Declarations and Future Prospects
Zidane has been vocal about his desire to coach the French national team, most notably stating at the Festivo dello Sport in Trento last October, "Without a doubt, I will return to coaching... one of my goals is to coach the French national team. We'll see." This move marks a significant chapter for both Zidane and French football, as he aims to build on the legacy he helped create as a player, having won the World Cup with France alongside Deschamps in 1998. The transition is expected to bring renewed energy and strategic vision to Les Bleus as they look toward future international competitions.
