Zinedine Zidane has made it quite evident since leaving the sidelines in the summer of 2021 that he intends to take over as head coach of the French national team in the future.  Ahead of France’s forthcoming matchup in the UEFA Nations League Final Four, the former Real Madrid manager restated his goals.  He has already talked candidly about the desire, and it seems to be getting closer to reality every day.

The fact that Zid is running for office is hardly a secret.  It’s been an open book, if anything.  Zidane, who has not been coaching since 2021, reaffirmed his preparedness to take over as head coach of Les Bleus on Monday at a busy event held at the Adidas shop in Paris.

Zidane told a source, “I’ve put my career on pause, but I feel 100% like a coach,” with enthusiasm.  “I feel qualified for the France position since I spent 12 to 14 years playing for the national team.  It’s a tremendous urge, of course.  The 1998 Ballon d’Or winner also acknowledged the services of current coach Didier Deschamps, demonstrating his profound regard for him.

“A squad and a coach are in place, and that is something that should be respected.  With reference to Deschamps’ ongoing leadership, Zidane stated, “That’s what we are doing now.”  “I’ve always valued people and football.  Therefore, this isn’t really the perfect time.  But if the chance presents itself when the time comes, it will be very appreciated.”

 The door is opening for Zidane since Deschamps is anticipated to resign following the 2026 World Cup.  Even while rumors of possible successors like Bruno Genesio and Thierry Henry are circulating, it would be shocking if the French Football Federation (FFF) ignored this national hero’s desire.

The FFF president, Philippe Diallo, is eager to keep things as they are and has not yet established formal contact with Zidane.  Diallo told RMC listeners last week, “Don’t worry, everything will be in place to ensure a smooth succession for Didier Deschamps when the time comes.”  Our current priorities are the World Cup and the Final Four matchup with Spain in Germany.  I want Didier and his team to always be in the greatest possible position to guide us to our destination.”

 Zidane must thus wait patiently for his opportunity to assume the tricolor helm of France for the time being.