Zidane set to replace Deschamps as France coach after World Cup
French Football Federation has reached verbal agreement with Zinedine Zidane to take over national team following 2026 tournament.
8:18 PM
Zinedine Zidane has accepted an offer to become France's next head coach following the 2026 World Cup, according to multiple reports. A verbal agreement exists between the former player and the French Football Federation, with an official announcement expected after the tournament concludes.
Didier Deschamps, who has led France since 2012, announced his departure from the role after the World Cup. The succession process has now advanced significantly, with Zidane emerging as the clear choice to replace him.
Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, indicated knowledge of Deschamps's successor in an interview published Monday in Le Figaro, though he did not name the individual. His comments lent credence to reports of negotiations between Zidane and the federation. Deschamps himself praised Zidane in recent remarks, describing him as "a very good candidate" for the position.
Zidane, who won the Ballon d'Or in 1998 and scored twice in France's 1998 World Cup final victory over Brazil alongside Deschamps, has not worked as a coach since 2021. According to reports, he prioritized the France position over offers from clubs, signaling his commitment to the national team role.