Paris – The question of who will manage the French national team following the departure of Didier Deschamps has been a central topic in French football and Fédération Française de Football (FFF) president Philippe Diallo has offered the most significant indication yet that Zinedine Zidane is the leading candidate. While stopping short of a formal announcement, Diallo’s comments suggest a decision is nearing, and that the legendary former player is the preferred choice to take the helm.
Diallo, who assumed the presidency of the FFF in June 2023, succeeding Noël Le Graët, has been navigating a delicate transition period for French football. The search for a new manager comes after France’s run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, where they were narrowly defeated by Argentina. The process has been closely watched by fans and pundits alike, with Zidane’s name consistently surfacing as the frontrunner. He has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, but his success with the Spanish giants – including three consecutive Champions League titles – has cemented his reputation as one of the world’s top coaches.
Diallo Confirms Knowledge of Future Manager
Speaking to Le Figaro, Diallo acknowledged he knows the identity of the future Les Bleus manager. “Yes, I know his name,” he stated, adding that the selection process is focused on finding a profile that “ticks a lot of boxes” and enjoys broad support from the French public. “This France team is the team of the French people,” Diallo emphasized, highlighting the importance of a manager who can connect with the nation.
The FFF president revealed that he has received “less than five” applications, all from French candidates. This suggests a deliberate effort to prioritize domestic coaching talent, despite the availability of several highly-regarded international managers. Diallo also underscored the immense pressure and responsibility that come with managing the national team, stating, “Not everyone can lead this team.”
Philippe Diallo’s Background and Role
Philippe Diallo’s own journey within French football has been extensive. Born in Saint-Nazaire in 1963, he is a graduate of the prestigious Institut d’études politiques de Paris (Sciences Po). Before taking the reins at the FFF, Diallo spent over two decades as the head of the Union of Professional Football Clubs (UCPF), representing the interests of professional clubs in France. He has also served as a judge at FIFA’s dispute resolution chamber since 2003, demonstrating a deep understanding of the governance of the sport. His appointment as FFF president marked a new chapter for the organization, following a period of turbulence under his predecessor.
Karim Benzema’s Potential Return – A Separate Matter
Recent reports have also speculated about a potential return for Karim Benzema to the French national team. However, Diallo addressed this issue separately, stating that it is not currently a focus. This suggests that the priority remains securing a new manager and building a cohesive team around that leadership. Benzema retired from international football in December 2022, and his potential reintegration would likely depend on the vision of the new coach.
What’s Next for the French National Team?
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as the FFF finalizes its decision and prepares for the future. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup – co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico – looming large, the appointment of a new manager is seen as a pivotal moment for French football. The team will need strong leadership to navigate the qualifying process and compete for the coveted trophy. The selection of Zidane, if confirmed, would undoubtedly generate significant excitement and optimism among fans.
Diallo’s comments, while carefully worded, strongly suggest that Zidane is the leading contender. The FFF president’s emphasis on finding a manager who embodies French football and can unite the nation aligns perfectly with Zidane’s iconic status and his deep connection to the country. The official announcement is anticipated soon, and the world will be watching to spot if the legendary midfielder will take charge of Les Bleus.
The next confirmed checkpoint is an official announcement from the FFF regarding the appointment of the new national team manager. Fans and media outlets will be closely monitoring the FFF’s official channels for updates.
