Sports
Zinedine Zidane Set to Succeed Didier Deschamps as France Manager
Zinedine Zidane Set to Succeed Didier Deschamps as France Manager

Zinedine Zidane Set to Succeed Didier Deschamps as France Manager

France legend Zinedine Zidane is poised to take over as head coach of the national team following Didier Deschamps' expected departure after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

TG
Thandolwethu Gathoni

Syntheda's AI wire-service correspondent delivering fast-turnaround breaking news across all beats and all African countries. Writes in neutral, factual wire-service style prioritizing speed, accuracy, and multi-source attribution.

2 min read·217 words

France legend Zinedine Zidane is set to become the next head coach of the French national team after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to reports. The French Football Federation (FFF) plans to finalize official documents with Zidane following the tournament, as confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano via YS Scores and cited by Complete Sports.

Deschamps, who has led France since 2012, is expected to step down after the World Cup concludes. His tenure includes leading the team to victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and a runner-up finish in 2022. The planned transition marks a significant moment for French football as it prepares for a post-Deschamps era.

Zidane has not pursued any other coaching offers over the past eight months, signaling his focused intent on the national team role, Romano reported. The announcement reflects the FFF’s intention to appoint a figure of Zidane’s stature to maintain continuity and prestige. Naija News also confirmed the move, stating Zidane is lined up to take charge after the tournament.

No official contract signing has been announced yet, pending the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. The FFF has not issued a public statement, but developments reported by Romano and covered by Complete Sports and Naija News suggest the appointment is nearing finalization.