Zidane to Replace Deschamps as France Manager After 2026 World Cup

Didier Deschamps has managed the French national team since 2012, leading them to a World Cup title in 2018. The victory marked a significant moment for French football, ending a two-decade wait for the trophy.

Under Deschamps’ guidance, France also reached the final of the 2022 World Cup, but ultimately fell to Argentina in a thrilling contest. Despite the loss, the team’s performance showcased their continued strength on the world stage.

In 2016, Deschamps steered the French squad to the final of the European Championship, where they were defeated by Portugal. The run to the final highlighted France’s resurgence as a European powerhouse.

Zinedine Zidane held the head coaching position at Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2019 to 2021. His tenure at the club was marked by significant success and tactical innovation.

While at the helm of Real Madrid, Zidane secured three Champions League titles in 2016, 2017, and 2018 – an unprecedented achievement in the modern era of the competition. These victories cemented his reputation as one of the world’s top managers.

Zidane also led Real Madrid to two La Liga championships in 2017 and 2020, adding to his impressive collection of trophies with the Spanish giants. His success brought a period of dominance for Real Madrid both domestically and internationally.

Deschamps and Zidane were teammates on the French national team that won the 1998 World Cup and the 2000 European Championship, forming a formidable partnership on the pitch. Their shared history adds another layer of intrigue to this potential coaching change.

ESPN reports that Zidane will take over from Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup final tournament, scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19. The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, promising a unique and exciting spectacle for fans worldwide.