France is poised to announce Zinedine Zidane as their new head coach following the conclusion of Didier Deschamps’ successful tenure.
The French Football Federation is anticipated to officially confirm Zidane’s appointment this month, as plans for the transition have been meticulously prepared ahead of time.
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The 54-year-old has already finalized his coaching staff and is expected to complete the necessary paperwork soon before taking over the national team.
Zidane will step into a role that includes one of the most talented squads worldwide, aiming to lead France in the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign.
Deschamps will first manage his final match this weekend when Les Bleus meet England in the 2026 World Cup third-place play-off before officially handing the reins to Zidane.
The outgoing manager departs with an impressive legacy, having led France to victory at the 2018 World Cup, the 2021 UEFA Nations League title, and a place in the World Cup final in 2022.
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However, France’s failure to reach another World Cup final prompted the federation to expedite a succession plan centered around Zidane.
The former France captain has been linked to this role since parting ways with Real Madrid in 2021, and he is now set to make a long-anticipated return to coaching.
Since concluding his second stint at Santiago Bernabeu, Zidane has been out of management, but his record places him among the elite in modern football.
During his two tenures, he captured three consecutive Champions League titles, two La Liga championships, two UEFA Super Cups, and two FIFA Club World Cups, solidifying his status as one of the game’s greatest managers.
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As a player, Zidane is celebrated in French football history as he led his nation to the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 victories.
His contributions during these triumphs have sealed his reputation as one of the greatest players of his era, and he won the Ballon d’Or in 1998.
Attention now turns to how Zidane will shape a squad featuring established stars like Kylian Mbappe, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Ousmane Dembele, William Saliba, and Michael Olise.
Many anticipate that Zidane will implement a more expansive and possession-based style, especially after France faced criticism for their lack of attacking fluency during the World Cup.