Zinedine Zidane Poised for Spectacular Coaching Comeback with France National Team
Indications are growing stronger that Zinedine Zidane is set to take over as the head coach of the French national football team.
The successor to Didier Deschamps as coach of the French national team after the 2026 World Cup has reportedly already been decided. The federation president has confirmed knowing the name of the next coach, stating that "it requires a personality who meets many criteria and can also win the support of the French people." While the individual's identity was not explicitly revealed, strong indications point to Zinedine Zidane taking on the role. Reports suggest Zidane is already assembling his coaching staff.
Deschamps announced earlier this year that he would step down from the "Les Bleus" after the summer tournament. Zidane has long been considered his likely successor, with previous reports indicating a verbal agreement between the 1998 Ballon d'Or winner and the French Football Federation. Zidane himself reiterated his aspiration in October, stating, "My wish is to become head coach of the French national team one day." Under Deschamps, France notably won the World Cup in Russia in 2018.
Zidane's Recent Coaching Role: Real Madrid
Zidane began his career at Real Madrid as an advisor, progressively moving up to the position of sporting director. He gained his initial coaching experience with the club's U17 team before taking charge of the second team.
He managed the Madrid team for 149 matches from January 2016 to summer 2018. He then returned in March 2019, leading the team again until summer 2021, and has been without a coaching role since.
Zinedine Zidane's Achievements as Real Madrid Coach
| Achievement | Years |
|---|---|
| UEFA Champions League Winner | 2016, 2017, 2018 |
| Spanish Champion (La Liga) | 2017, 2020 |
| Supercopa de España Winner | 2018, 2020 |
| FIFA Club World Cup Winner | 2017, 2018 |
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