Zidane Set to Become France Head Coach After Deschamps’ Departure

‎French football is on the brink of a historic transition as Zinedine Zidane prepares to take over the France national football team after the 2026 World Cup.

‎Sources have told ESPN that a verbal agreement is already in place between Zidane and the Fédération Française de Football, marking the end of one era and the long-awaited beginning of another.

‎Deschamps’ Exit Ends a 14-Year Golden Era

‎The departure of Didier Deschamps has been described as the “worst-kept secret” in French football.

‎Since taking charge in 2012, Deschamps has led France through one of the most successful periods in the nation’s history winning the 2018 World Cup, reaching the Euro 2016 final, finishing as runners-up at the 2022 World Cup, and lifting the Nations League.

‎But after 14 years at the helm, the FFF has finally set the succession plan in motion.

‎Zidane The Inevitable Successor

‎At 53, Zidane has been widely seen as Deschamps’ natural heir. The former Real Madrid star and three-time Champions League–winning manager has repeatedly turned down club offers in recent years, waiting for just one job the France national team.

‎His second managerial stint in Madrid ended in 2021, and he has been patient ever since, anticipating the moment the role would become available.

‎Official Appointment Expected After 2026 World Cup

‎Zidane will formally assume the role after France concludes its 2026 World Cup campaign.

‎The final outstanding detail is the size and structure of his technical staff an element Zidane places great importance on and one that must be agreed upon before signing.

‎FFF Confirms What Everyone Already Knew

‎In an interview with Le Figaro, FFF president Philippe Diallo publicly acknowledged for the first time that he already knows who will replace Deschamps effectively confirming Zidane’s long-rumored succession.

‎What Zidane’s Appointment Means for France

‎Zidane’s arrival signals a major stylistic and strategic shift for Les Bleus. Known for blending tactical discipline with expressive attacking football, Zidane will inherit a squad stacked with generational talents including Kylian Mbappé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and William Saliba.

‎The post-World Cup cycle will mark the first time since 2012 that France starts a campaign under new leadership a transition that could reshape the team’s identity for the next decade.