Fakayejo Paul
It is the moment French football fans have anticipated for years. The French Football Federation (FFF) is prepared to sign all formal contracts with legendary icon Zinedine Zidane immediately following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The announcement marks a poetic, generational transition. Following Les Bleus’ disappointing 2-0 semi-final defeat against Spain on Tuesday night, Didier Deschamps’ historic 14-year cycle at the helm of the national team has officially run its course. Deschamps will manage his final match in the third-place play-off this weekend before handing over the keys to his former 1998 World Cup teammate.
Singleminded Focus: The Wait for Les Bleus
For Zidane, taking the reins of the national team is the realization of a long-held dream. Since stepping down from his highly successful second managerial stint at Real Madrid in 2021, “Zizou” has patiently bided his time:
- Total Commitment: Over the past eight months, Zidane refused to engage with any other proposals, brushing off concrete advances from heavyweight clubs—including Manchester United—as well as other national team federations.
- The Long Wait: He had originally hoped to step into the role following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, but waited gracefully after Deschamps signed a contract extension. His patience has finally been rewarded.
Rebuilding the French Powerhouse
With a verbal agreement in place, FFF President Philippe Diallo and the board are ready to finalize the paperwork on what is expected to be a long-term deal carrying Zidane through the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Zidane’s immediate task will be to rejuvenate a highly talented dressing room and rebuild tactical chemistry after recent public frustrations, notably from captain Kylian Mbappé following their semi-final exit. Known for his incredible man-management and ability to handle elite egos, the three-time consecutive Champions League-winning manager is widely viewed as the perfect figure to unite the squad.
Zidane’s first official matches in the dugout are scheduled for September 2026, when France begins its UEFA Nations League campaign against Italy, Belgium, and Turkey.