The announcement of Didier Deschamps' departure as head coach of the French national team after the 2026 World Cup, made on January 8, has placed Zinedine Zidane as the leading candidate to succeed him. While the former Real Madrid coach has remained silent publicly, sources close to him suggest he is keen on taking up the challenge.

"Fulfilling His Dream"

Those in Zidane’s circle describe managing Les Bleus as one of his deepest aspirations. "The French national team is part of his personal history. He wants to fulfill his dream," a source told Le Parisien.

Although Deschamps will remain in charge for another year and a half, the possibility of Zidane leading the team is already generating excitement across France. In an interview with L'Équipe in June 2022, Zidane expressed his desire:

"Coaching France is something I want, of course, and it will happen one day. I experienced the national team as a player, and it was one of the best things that ever happened to me."

A Cordial Relationship with Deschamps

While Zidane and Deschamps are not close friends, they maintain a cordial relationship. However, Zidane's public comments in 2022 about wanting to manage the French team reportedly caused some discomfort for Deschamps, who may have felt overshadowed as he prepared for the Qatar World Cup.

Currently, Zidane, based in Madrid and away from coaching since his second stint with Real Madrid, has yet to make any definitive statements. Nevertheless, his inner circle confirms his readiness to lead the team when the opportunity arises.

Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation (FFF), has acknowledged having potential candidates in mind but emphasized that no formal discussions have taken place yet:

"I don’t want to jump ahead in a succession plan that isn’t current," Diallo said, reiterating full support for Deschamps as he enters his final phase with the team.

Before stepping down, Deschamps has several challenges ahead, including the Nations League and securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The possibility of Zidane taking over adds intrigue to an already significant transition for French football.