Zinedine Zidane is poised to return to management as the new head coach of the French national team, according to reports. The 53-year-old former Real Madrid boss has been out of work since leaving the Bernabeu in 2021 and has long been linked with the France job.
Le Parisien reports that Zidane has reached a verbal agreement with the French Football Federation (FFF) to take over from Didier Deschamps after this summer's World Cup. FFF president Philippe Diallo hinted at the appointment in an interview with Le Figaro, stating, 'Yes, I know his name.'
Diallo added that the federation is seeking a profile that ticks many boxes and can unite the French public. He confirmed that fewer than five applications were received, all from French candidates. Zidane himself had previously suggested a return was imminent, saying, 'It will happen soon. Very soon.'
Former teammate Nicolas Anelka endorsed Zidane, calling him 'the best choice' and lauding his leadership qualities demonstrated at Real Madrid. Meanwhile, Manchester United, who had been linked with Zidane, have appointed Michael Carrick as head coach, with the side sitting third in the Premier League.
