Zidane Poised for Triumphant Return: Ex-Real Madrid Boss Set to Take Over France After 2026 World Cup

In a development poised to reshape the future of Les Bleus, former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane is reportedly set to return to the dugout—this time as the head coach of the French national football team. According to Spanish outlet AS, the 53-year-old legend will replace Didier Deschamps after the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Deschamps, who has held the reins of France’s national side since 2012, confirmed earlier this year that he plans to step down once his contract expires after the tournament.

His departure marks the end of a storied 14-year reign that included a 2018 World Cup title and a run to the 2022 final.

For Zidane, the move would represent the fulfillment of a long-harbored ambition. The former midfield maestro has publicly expressed his desire to coach France on multiple occasions.

Speaking at various events, he has emphasized his passion for the national team—a bond forged as a player during his 80 appearances for Les Bleus and highlighted by his two iconic goals in France’s 1998 World Cup final victory.

Zidane’s return to the technical area would mark the end of a nearly four-year managerial sabbatical: he last coached Real Madrid, leaving the club in 2021 after a hugely successful second spell.

Despite offers from top European clubs and even national sides, he has reportedly held out for the France job—a signal that his heart was set on this very moment.

According to FrenchFootballWeekly, Zidane is widely regarded within the French Football Federation (FFF) as the “designated successor” to Deschamps.

The FFF president, Philippe Diallo, has kept his cards close to his chest, indicating that a formal announcement will come only after the World Cup, maintaining stability through France’s final months under Deschamps.

Zidane’s potential appointment is being greeted with huge enthusiasm from fans and pundits alike. For many in France, he represents not only the perfect blend of loyalty and prestige but also a long-term vision built on his winning pedigree. He won three consecutive Champions League titles as Real Madrid coach—a rare feat only for the boldest of minds.

Zidane himself has described the prospect of managing Les Bleus as a deeply personal “dream,” saying, “I feel qualified for the French team, where I played… of course, it’s a dream, I can’t wait.”

If the AS report proves accurate, the spring of 2026 may mark the dawn of a new era for French football—one led by perhaps its most beloved son.