Paris – The future of the French national football team is all but settled, with the French Football Federation (FFF) confirming that a successor to head coach Didier Deschamps has been identified. The announcement, made by FFF president Philippe Diallo, comes ahead of France’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, where Deschamps will conclude a 14-year tenure.
Although the FFF is keeping the name under wraps for now, all signs point to Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane stepping into the role. The confirmation, reported by Le Figaro, marks a significant turning point for Les Bleus, as they prepare for a recent era following Deschamps’ successful, yet increasingly scrutinized, leadership.
Diallo Confirms Decision, Cites Need for National Connection
Diallo revealed in an interview that he has already identified Deschamps’ replacement, stating, “Yes, I realize who will be France’s next manager.” He also acknowledged receiving fewer than five applications, all from French candidates, underscoring the prestige and high expectations associated with leading the national team. “There aren’t a huge number of profiles who can claim to lead one of the greatest national teams in the world,” Diallo added.
The FFF president emphasized the importance of finding a coach who not only possesses the tactical acumen and experience to manage a top-tier squad but also can connect with the French public. “The French team is one of the best nations in the world and therefore not everyone can lead it,” Diallo explained. “You need a profile that ticks a lot of boxes and can also gain the support of the French people, because this French football team belongs to the French people. A connection must be created between the coach and the French.” He highlighted Deschamps’ ability to forge that connection during his 14-year reign as a key attribute his successor must replicate.
Deschamps’ Tenure and the Road to 2026
Didier Deschamps assumed the role of France’s head coach in 2012, leading the team to a World Cup title in 2018 and a runner-up finish in the 2022 tournament. His leadership has been marked by tactical flexibility and a commitment to developing a strong team spirit. Though, recent squad selections and internal issues, including the sidelining of captain Kylian Mbappé at times, have fueled speculation about his future.
France is currently preparing for a series of international friendlies as part of their build-up to the 2026 World Cup. They will face Brazil on March 26th at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and Colombia on March 29th at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. These matches will provide valuable opportunities for Deschamps to assess his squad and experiment with different formations before the tournament.
Zidane: The Long-Awaited Successor
Zinedine Zidane has long been considered the natural heir apparent to Deschamps. A legendary figure in French football, both as a player and a manager, Zidane boasts an impressive coaching record, having led Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles (2016-2018). His tactical brilliance, man-management skills, and deep understanding of the game make him a highly sought-after coach.
While Diallo has remained tight-lipped about the official announcement, the expectation is that Zidane will be unveiled as the new head coach after France’s participation in the 2026 World Cup. The FFF president explained that delaying the announcement until after the tournament is intended to minimize distractions and allow Deschamps to focus on preparing the team for success.
The appointment of Zidane is expected to generate significant excitement among French fans and players alike. His arrival could usher in a new era of attacking football and further elevate France’s status as a global powerhouse in the sport. The challenge for Zidane will be to build upon Deschamps’ legacy and lead Les Bleus to even greater heights.
What’s Next for France?
The immediate focus for France remains the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Colombia. These matches will serve as crucial preparation for the 2026 World Cup, providing Deschamps with an opportunity to fine-tune his squad and experiment with different tactical approaches. Following the World Cup, the transition to Zidane’s leadership will begin, with the expectation that he will quickly implement his own vision for the team. The FFF has reportedly already begun laying the groundwork for Zidane’s backroom staff, signaling their commitment to a smooth and successful handover.
Fans can follow the team’s progress and stay updated on the latest news through the official FFF website and social media channels. The anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting new chapter in French football history.
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