Zinedine Zidane to Replace Didier Deschamps as France Coach
Short overview
Zinedine Zidane is set to succeed Didier Deschamps as head coach of the French national football team, according to multiple reports. The change is expected after the 2026 World Cup, marking a new era for Les Bleus.
Zinedine Zidane is poised to take over as head coach of the French national football team, replacing Didier Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup, according to multiple reports. The transition would end Deschamps' long tenure and bring one of France's greatest players back to the helm.
Background and Context
Didier Deschamps has been in charge of Les Bleus since 2012, leading them to victory in the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Nations League, as well as a runner-up finish in the 2022 World Cup. His contract runs through the 2026 World Cup, after which he is expected to step down. Zidane, a World Cup winner as a player in 1998 and a three-time Champions League-winning coach with Real Madrid, has been widely tipped as his successor.
Zidane's Coaching Pedigree
Zidane has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. During his two stints at the Bernabéu, he won 11 trophies, including three consecutive Champions League titles (2016, 2017, 2018) and two La Liga titles (2017, 2020). His tactical acumen and man-management skills have made him a highly sought-after coach.
Implications for French Football
The appointment would mark a significant moment for French football, as Zidane is revered as one of the nation's greatest players. His return could inject new energy into a squad that remains one of the most talented in the world, featuring stars like Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Eduardo Camavinga. However, Zidane will face high expectations to build on Deschamps' success and potentially lead France to another World Cup title.
No official announcement has been made by the French Football Federation (FFF), but sources indicate that discussions have taken place. The FFF is expected to confirm the succession plan in due course, allowing for a smooth transition after the 2026 tournament.
More on these topics
Uefa set to drop Fifa boycott threat after assurances
Uefa is expected to lift its threat of boycotting Fifa competitions after receiving assurances that plans to sell World Cup stakes to private investors will not be revived. The decision, to be discussed at Thursday's executive committee meeting, would allow the Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland to proceed.
Graham Arnold signs six-month extension as Iraq head coach
Graham Arnold has signed a six-month contract extension with the Iraq Football Association, keeping him at the helm for the Gulf Cup and the 2025 AFC Asian Cup. Despite a four-year offer, Arnold chose a shorter term, citing mutual interests.
England Women U20s squad named amid Fifa boycott threat
England Women U20s head coach Lydia Bedford has named her 21-player squad for the Fifa U20s Women's World Cup in Poland, amid threats of a European boycott over the controversial Fifa Forward Enterprise proposal. The tournament runs from 5 to 27 September.
Senegal's Ndiaye: From Bundesliga Debut to World Cup Stage
Bara Sapoko Ndiaye, an 18-year-old midfielder, made his FIFA World Cup debut for Senegal in 2026 after a rapid rise from Bayern Munich's youth setup. His journey highlights a new generation of Senegalese talent poised to lead the national team.
