Zinedine Zidane has reached a verbal agreement to become the next head coach of the France national team, according to a report from the UK’s Daily Mirror. The 53-year-old former Real Madrid manager is slated to take charge of Les Bleus following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Zidane’s appointment would mark his return to management after his second tenure with Real Madrid ended in May 2021. Since departing the Santiago Bernabeu, the French football icon has been repeatedly linked with high-profile vacancies, including at Juventus and Manchester United, as well as a potential third spell in Madrid. However, he has consistently declined all formal offers, reportedly holding out for the opportunity to coach his national side.
The transition hinges on the scheduled exit of current France manager Didier Deschamps. Deschamps, who led France to victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, will see his contract expire after the 2026 tournament. His tenure, which began in 2012, is the longest in the history of the France national team and includes a run to the 2022 World Cup final.
Zidane brings immense coaching pedigree, having won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles during his first stint at Real Madrid from 2016 to 2018, in addition to two La Liga championships. As a player, he was the star of the France team that won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000, and remains one of the country’s most celebrated sporting figures.
Media Talk Africa understands that while a verbal framework is in place, a formal contract signing will be contingent on the successful completion of France’s 2026 World Cup campaign under Deschamps. This planned succession ensures a period of stability for the French Football Federation (FFF), providing clarity on the long-term direction of the squad.
The move would see Zidane inherit a talented generation of players, including Kylian Mbappé, who have consistently reached the latter stages of major tournaments but are yet to secure a trophy since the 2018 World Cup. His immediate tasks would include navigating the qualification cycle for the 2027 UEFA European Championship and integrating emerging talent.
This potential appointment represents a significant moment for French football, bridging the gap between its recent successful era under Deschamps and a new chapter led by a legendary figure from its past. All parties are expected to maintain a low profile until the official announcement post-2026 World Cup.
