France is preparing for a new chapter in its national football history, with Zinedine Zidane set to succeed Didier Deschamps as head coach following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Reports indicate that the French Football Federation has finalized its decision, with formal documents expected to be completed before the end of July.

The appointment follows France’s 2 0 semi-final defeat to Spain, a result that brought an end to Deschamps’ 14-year spell in charge. During his tenure, France captured the 2018 FIFA World Cup and reached another World Cup final in 2022, establishing one of the most successful eras in the nation’s football history.

Zidane has been without a coaching role since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, despite attracting interest from several leading clubs and national teams. According to football journalist Fabrizio Romano, the former France captain rejected those opportunities because he wanted the national team position. Romano reported that Zidane has already assembled his coaching staff and is expected to guide France through the UEFA Nations League, Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

The 54-year-old returns to management with an outstanding coaching record. Across two spells with Real Madrid, Zidane won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles and two Spanish league championships, strengthening his reputation as one of the game’s elite managers. As a player, he inspired France to victory at the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000, cementing his status as one of the country’s greatest footballers.

French football officials are reportedly working through administrative matters before confirming the appointment. Recent changes introduced by the French government place an annual salary cap of $500,000 on sports federation leaders, significantly below the earnings typically associated with a coach of Zidane’s standing. Reports suggest discussions are underway with the Ministry of Sports to establish a legal framework that would allow the federation to offer a higher compensation package.

When he officially takes charge, Zidane will inherit one of international football’s strongest squads, led by captain Kylian Mbappé and supported by an emerging generation of talented players. His immediate objective will be to build on the foundations left by Deschamps and return France to the top of world football after its World Cup campaign ended one match short of the final.

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