Zidane’s Future as Potential France Manager Remains Unclear Amidst Federation’s Hesitancy

Zinedine Zidane’s potential appointment as the next manager of the French national team following the 2026 World Cup remains shrouded in uncertainty, with the president of the French Football Federation (FFF), Philippe Diallo, maintaining a guarded stance on the matter.

Speculation surrounding Zidane’s future has intensified since the former Real Madrid manager expressed his desire to return to coaching, specifically targeting a national team role. In October, during the Festival dello Sport, Zidane publicly stated, "I want to coach a national team in the future, although not necessarily now. I want to coach a national team one day, but we’ll see." This declaration fueled rumors linking him to the France job, particularly with the looming expiration of Didier Deschamps’ contract after the 2026 World Cup.

Zidane’s managerial credentials are undeniably impressive. During his two spells at Real Madrid (2016-2018 and 2019-2021), he amassed an impressive trophy haul of 11 titles, including three consecutive UEFA Champions League victories (2016, 2017, and 2018), a feat unmatched in the modern era of the competition. He also secured two La Liga titles (2017 and 2020), two FIFA Club World Cups (2016 and 2017), and two UEFA Super Cups (2016 and 2017), establishing himself as one of the most successful managers in Real Madrid’s illustrious history. His tactical acumen, man-management skills, and ability to inspire players have been widely praised, making him a highly sought-after figure in the footballing world.

Despite Zidane’s expressed interest and his proven track record, FFF President Philippe Diallo has remained tight-lipped about the succession plan for the national team. With Didier Deschamps’ contract set to expire after the 2026 World Cup, regardless of the team’s performance, the federation faces a crucial decision in selecting the next manager to lead Les Bleus.

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When questioned about Zidane’s potential candidacy and his recent public statements, Diallo offered a cryptic response, stating, "We’ll see in July. Many unexpected things can happen." This ambiguous statement has only served to fuel further speculation and uncertainty surrounding the situation.

Didier Deschamps, who has been at the helm of the French national team since 2012, has enjoyed considerable success during his tenure. He guided France to the final of Euro 2016, where they lost to Portugal in extra time. However, he achieved ultimate glory by winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, defeating Croatia in the final. He also won the UEFA Nations League in 2021, solidifying his position as one of the most successful managers in French football history. Under his leadership, France has consistently been ranked among the top teams in the world, showcasing a blend of tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and attacking flair.

However, France’s performance in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they lost to Argentina in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 3-3 draw, raised questions about the team’s future and whether a change in leadership might be necessary to revitalize the squad. While Deschamps ultimately signed a contract extension until 2026, the pressure remains on him to deliver consistent results and maintain France’s status as a global footballing powerhouse.

Zidane’s connection to the French national team runs deep. As a player, he was an integral part of the squad that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup on home soil, scoring two goals in the final against Brazil. He also led France to victory at Euro 2000, further cementing his status as a national hero. Throughout his international career, Zidane earned 108 caps for France, scoring 31 goals and showcasing his exceptional talent and leadership qualities. His performances on the field inspired a generation of French footballers and contributed to the country’s rich footballing heritage.

The timing of Zidane’s potential appointment is also a crucial factor. With the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament represents a significant opportunity for France to showcase its talent on a global stage. The new manager will need to quickly adapt to the demands of international football, build a cohesive team, and develop a tactical strategy that can compete with the world’s best.

Furthermore, the composition of the French squad is likely to evolve between now and 2026. Some of the current stars, such as Karim Benzema and Olivier Giroud, may be nearing the end of their international careers, while a new generation of players will be emerging and vying for a place in the team. The next manager will need to identify and integrate these young talents, while also maintaining the experience and leadership of the established players.

Beyond Zidane, other potential candidates for the France job include Laurent Blanc, who previously managed the national team from 2010 to 2012, and Arsène Wenger, the former Arsenal manager who has extensive experience in both club and international football. However, Zidane remains the frontrunner in the eyes of many fans and pundits, given his success at Real Madrid and his iconic status in French football.

The FFF’s decision regarding the next manager of the French national team will have a significant impact on the future of French football. The federation will need to carefully consider all the available options and make a decision that is in the best interests of the team and the country. The appointment of Zidane would undoubtedly be a popular choice, but it is crucial that the decision is based on merit and a clear vision for the future of French football.

The coming months are likely to be filled with further speculation and rumors as the FFF continues its search for the next manager of the French national team. The footballing world will be watching closely to see who will ultimately be chosen to lead Les Bleus into a new era. The pressure is on the federation to make the right decision, as the future of French football hangs in the balance. Whether Zidane will ultimately be chosen remains to be seen, but his name will undoubtedly continue to be linked with the job until a final decision is made. The uncertainty surrounding the situation only adds to the intrigue and anticipation surrounding one of the most coveted managerial positions in world football.

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Ahmad Zein Salamo

Ahmad Zein Salamo is a dedicated football journalist at Sports News Break, covering the global game with a sharp eye for detail and passion for storytelling. With years of experience following Europe’s top leagues and international tournaments, he delivers insightful analysis, match previews, and breaking news with journalistic integrity and depth.

His reporting combines tactical understanding with a human perspective, highlighting not only the drama on the pitch but also the stories that shape the sport beyond it. From Champions League nights to grassroots football, Ahmad’s work reflects a true love for the beautiful game and a commitment to bringing readers closer to the action.

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