Zinedine Zidane Set to Lead French National Team After 2026 World Cup

Zinedine Zidane has reached a verbal agreement to become the head coach of the French national team after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This move marks a significant shift in leadership for the team, which has been under the guidance of Didier Deschamps since 2012.

Deschamps has led the French national team for 14 years, a tenure that includes winning the FIFA World Cup in 2018. Zidane, who is 53 years old, has a storied history in football, both as a player and a coach. He previously managed Real Madrid from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2019 to 2021, during which he secured multiple titles.

Zidane’s illustrious playing career includes winning the Ballon d’Or in 1998 and being part of the France squads that triumphed in the FIFA World Cup in 1998 and UEFA Euro 2000. His return to the national team as a coach has been highly anticipated, especially given his previous successes.

Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, commented on the need for a coach who can garner support from the French people, stating, “It takes a profile that ticks many boxes and which can also be the subject of support from the French people.”

Despite the verbal agreement, Zidane has not yet signed a contract with the Federation Francaise de Football. Reports indicate that he is seeking an expanded backroom staff, potentially led by David Bettoni, who has previously worked with him at Real Madrid.

As France prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, they will compete in Group I alongside Senegal and Norway. Their first match is scheduled against Senegal on June 16, 2026. The team is also set to play friendlies against Brazil on March 27 and Colombia on March 30.

While Zidane’s appointment is widely expected, details remain unconfirmed. Both parties are yet to finalize agreements on the coaching staff, and an official announcement regarding Zidane’s role is still pending.

In the meantime, Zidane has been linked with Manchester United since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure, adding another layer of intrigue to his future in football.