Zinedine Zidane, a legend of the sport and a two-time manager for Real Madrid, has signaled his intention to return to coaching. The iconic Frenchman,who stepped away from the dugout after his second stint with Los Blancos concluded in 2021,made the declaration at the Trento Sports Festival. His words have ignited speculation, particularly regarding his long-held ambition to manage the French national team.
Reflecting on his post-playing career, Zidane shared, “I didn’t know what to do, I tried many things until I signed up for the coaching course.” This candid admission highlights the purposeful path he has taken towards a future in management.
When pressed about his return to the touchline,Zidane stated unequivocally,”Without a doubt,I will train again. One of my dreams is to coach the French National Team. We’ll see when the time comes.” This statement is a clear indication that his focus is firmly set on leading Les Bleus.
The timing of Zidane’s potential return to management is a hot topic. His close friend and compatriot, Thierry Henry, recently offered his perspective, suggesting that Zidane is the natural successor to Didier Deschamps and could take the helm after the 2026 World Cup. Speaking to CBS, Henry commented, “I don’t know what to answer. We all know who the new coach will be. You know it and I know it. And I wish you the best,” when asked about Zidane’s future.
Zidane’s Enduring Connection to the French national Team
Since didier Deschamps indicated his tenure as the French national team manager would conclude after the 2026 World Cup, Zinedine Zidane has consistently emerged as the frontrunner for the prestigious position. The former Real Madrid boss has,in turn,appeared receptive to the idea,allowing his name to be associated with the role.
“The ‘Bleus’ are part of his personal history. You want to fulfill your dream,” a source close to the footballer told the newspaper *Le Parisien*. This sentiment underscores the deep emotional and professional ties Zidane has with the national team he captained to glory in 1998.
While Zidane himself has remained officially silent, preferring to maintain a low profile from his base in Madrid, these indirect affirmations suggest that the 1998 Ballon d’Or winner is actively keeping his candidacy alive.This is not the first time Zidane has publicly expressed his desire to coach France. In June 2022, prior to the Qatar World Cup, he told *L’Équipe* that he was convinced he would one day manage the team he represented with such distinction.
At that time, he stated, “It’s something I want, of course.And it will happen someday.” He further elaborated on his aspirations, adding, “When? It doesn’t depend on me, but I want to close the circle with the selection.I got to know the national team as a player and it is indeed one of the best things that has happened to me.” This desire to “close the circle” resonates with fans who remember his legendary playing career and envision him achieving similar success as a manager.
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