Credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Zinedine Zidane to Lead France? A New Era Following Didier Deschamps

Credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

France appear to be entering one of their most significant transitions in over a decade. Zinedine Zidane seems ready to take charge of the France national team after the 2026 World Cup. The French Football Federation are planning a fresh direction once Didier Deschamps brings his long tenure to a close next year.

Zidane is willing to return to management matching France’s desire for new energy. The expected appointment follows growing calls for change after years of mixed performances. France have consistently remained competitive under Deschamps. Even so, many have felt that the team’s evolution had stalled.

🚨🇫🇷 Zinedine Zidane remains the clear favorite to become next France head coach after the World Cup.

Nothing signed as Zizou wants to respect Deschamps who will only leave the job at the end of July.

Federation also fully focused on WC 2026 but Zizou favorite for next chapter. pic.twitter.com/9hS0OdxeRn
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 18, 2025

What to Follow After Didier Deschamps’ Monumental Era

Deschamps’ spell has shaped an extraordinary chapter for France. It has been marked by World Cup triumph in 2018, another final appearance in 2022, and a Nations League title. Yet, despite the trophies, criticism of his conservative tactical approach persisted.

Contrast between France’s explosive talent and the pragmatic system they operated in were often highlighted. Several rising stars struggled to reach their club-level intensity on the international stage. This then prompted debate over how much more the team could achieve with a different philosophy.

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Zidane is expected to provide exactly that shift. He boasts three consecutive Champions League titles and a league crown at Real Madrid. He also brings a reputation for managing high-profile squads with calm authority and strategic clarity. His approach also stands in contrast to the more cautious blueprint of the current regime.

A New Era-New Vision from Zinedine Zidane

Assuming that Zidane will step into the role in 2026, he will inherit both opportunity and pressure. France’s core remains exceptionally strong. So, expectations will be immense given the standards set by Deschamps. Rebuilding the team’s structure will be central to his mission.

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Especially as several senior figures have begun to phase out of international football. However, Zidane himself has maintained deep respect for Deschamps. He has avoided any premature gestures toward the role. That restraint has been noticed from a player and manager of his stature in French football.

It has only strengthened confidence in his eventual leadership. If he succeeds, France could enter a dynamic new era defined by creativity, flexibility, and a renewed sense of dominance Zidane is sure to bring. Even so, Deschamps will look to end his tenure with another World Cup at hand next year.

2026 World Cup

Didier Deschamps

France

Zinedine Zidane

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.