Zidane preparing to become France manager after World Cup

Zinedine Zidane. Andrew P. Scott-Imagn Images

Zinedine Zidane preparing to become France manager after 2026 World Cup

By Matt Evans | Last updated Sep 9, 2025 8:33 AM ET

Zinedine Zidane has long been believed to be the leading candidate to succeed Didier Deschamps, with growing expectation that he will take charge of France following the 2026 World Cup.

Deschamps, who has been at the helm since 2012, confirmed earlier this year that he will step down after the tournament in North America. His reign ranks among the most successful in French football history, highlighted by the 2018 World Cup triumph and a Nations League title in 2021.

By the time he departs, he will have served 14 years in the role, leaving behind a legacy of stability and silverware.

Focus has now shifted to Zidane, a national icon and one of the most accomplished coaches of his generation. According to French outlet L’Équipe, the former Real Madrid boss has been closely monitoring Les Bleus and quietly preparing for the position.

Zinédine Zidane is preparing to take over the French national team after the 2026 World Cup.

He has already laid out his plans for his future team, how he will set them up and who he will develop into key roles.

(Source: @lequipe) pic.twitter.com/SMlsAul33g
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) September 9, 2025

The reports suggest he has even held discussions with former France coach Laurent Blanc to gain insight into the squad and the challenges of international management.

Zidane’s pedigree is unquestionable. A World Cup-winning captain in 1998, he also enjoyed a glittering coaching spell with Real Madrid, where he won three consecutive Champions League titles. Deschamps himself has publicly described him as a “natural” successor, a view widely shared within the French Football Federation.

The 53-year-old has reportedly rejected several lucrative club offers, including a €100M (£117.7M) one-year deal from the Saudi Pro League, showing his determination to wait for the France role.

If appointed in 2026, Zidane would inherit a squad brimming with talent, led by Kylian Mbappe. The task ahead will be maintaining the consistency achieved under Deschamps while stamping his own authority on a team expected to remain at the forefront of world football.

For supporters, the prospect of one of France’s greatest ever players guiding the national side represents both continuity and excitement. With Deschamps’ departure confirmed, Zidane’s path to the dugout appears clearer than ever, setting the stage for a potentially historic new chapter for Les Bleus.

Matt Evans

Matt Evans is a sports journalist from the United Kingdom, now based in Paris, France. He has covered various sports including basketball, soccer, boxing, MMA, and motorsports. Over the past decade, Matt has focused heavily on the NBA and has worked with many established outlets on a variety of content

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