Zidane to France: Staff Plans Revealed as Deschamps Era Ends | Foot Mercato

With just weeks remaining in Didier Deschamps’ 14-year tenure as manager of the French national team, the impending arrival of Zinédine Zidane appears increasingly certain. While the Fédération Française de Football (FFF) has yet to officially name a successor, FFF president Philippe Diallo recently confirmed the identity of the next head coach is known. [1]

Zidane, according to reports from RMC Sport, is already working behind the scenes to assemble his coaching staff ahead of taking the reins at Clairefontaine, France’s national football center. The former Real Madrid manager is expected to lean on trusted lieutenants David Bettoni and Hamidou Msaidie, both of whom served alongside him during his successful spells in Madrid. Zidane prioritizes surrounding himself with a team he trusts, individuals familiar with his methods and capable of maintaining confidentiality. [2]

A Blend of Loyalty and Familiar Faces

Beyond this core group, Zidane is considering incorporating several figures closely associated with him, particularly those from the celebrated 1998 World Cup-winning squad. The name of Alain Boghossian has been frequently mentioned, RMC Sport reports. Boghossian previously served as an assistant coach for the French national team from 2008 to 2012 and currently works as a pundit for M6. He maintains a strong relationship with Zidane. [2]

Another figure under consideration is Henri Émile, a long-standing and influential figure within the French national team’s coaching setup. While Émile is reportedly hesitant to return to a full-time role, he has shared his experience and insights with Zidane. Other names circulating include Bernard Diomède, currently the coach of the France under-20 team, and Stéphane Plancque, a specialist in opposition analysis, as noted by L’Équipe. [2]

It’s also possible that some members of Deschamps’ current staff will be retained, mirroring the approach taken when Deschamps himself took over in 2012. Financial considerations within the FFF, which is currently navigating a delicate financial situation, may also influence staffing decisions. [2]

The appointment of Zidane has been anticipated for some time. ESPN reported on March 23, 2026, that a verbal agreement had already been reached between Zidane and the FFF. [1, 2] This agreement is expected to be formalized following the conclusion of France’s participation in the 2026 World Cup. [1, 2]

Zidane’s arrival marks the complete of an era for Deschamps, who led France to victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Nations League, as well as a runner-up finish at the 2022 World Cup. Deschamps’ departure, while not unexpected, signals a changing of the guard for Les Bleus. [1]

The transition period will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Zidane inherits a team brimming with talent, including Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Aurélien Tchouaméni. Successfully integrating his own tactical vision and fostering a cohesive team environment will be crucial as France prepares for future international competitions. [1]

The composition of Zidane’s staff will be a key indicator of his approach. Prioritizing loyalty and experience, as evidenced by the potential inclusion of Bettoni, Msaidie, and Boghossian, suggests a desire for stability and a continuation of the winning culture established under Deschamps. However, the addition of fresh perspectives, such as Diomède or Plancque, could also signal a willingness to embrace innovation. [2]

For now, all eyes remain on Didier Deschamps and the French national team as they compete in the 2026 World Cup. The tournament represents a final opportunity for Deschamps to add to his already impressive legacy, while simultaneously serving as a proving ground for the players who will form the foundation of Zidane’s future squad. [1]

The official announcement of Zidane’s appointment is expected shortly after France’s World Cup campaign concludes, ushering in a modern chapter for French football. The focus will then shift to Zidane’s vision for the team and his plans for building a squad capable of challenging for future honors. [1, 2]

The next confirmed checkpoint is the conclusion of France’s participation in the 2026 World Cup. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of this developing story and all the latest news from the world of football.