Is Zidane Ready to Lead France? The Federation’s Clues and a Quiet Doubt
22 November 2025
Timeline and Speculation
Zinedine Zidane, the legendary former Real Madrid coach, is increasingly painted as the man who could finally take charge of the France national team. After years away from the dugout, he remains the subject of intense speculation as conversations about his potential return heat up in dressing rooms and newsroom offices alike.
Didier Deschamps, who has steered France through a challenging yet successful era, confirmed in early 2025 that he intends to step away after the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. That decision opens a window of uncertainty over who will assume the head coaching role for the Blues.
Zidane, now 55, has been largely off the managerial scene since ending his second spell at Real Madrid in 2021, choosing discretion over constant rumor mill chatter.
The sense that a return could be imminent grew brighter after Zidane’s participation in a charity match in France last week, where the mood on the sidelines suggested a possible comeback and a renewed focus on the national team’s future.
Philippe Diallo, the president of the French Football Federation, signaled that the federation might reveal who will replace Deschamps before the World Cup finals, potentially shaping the timeline for a formal announcement.
What’s Next for the Doves and the Blues
In remarks to journalists, Diallo hinted that the official revelation could come as the World Cup campaign concludes, or perhaps a few months earlier in March or April, depending on the team’s progress and the broader strategic plan. The timing remains fluid, even as the question lingers in the air.
Diallo also emphasized that Deschamps himself would be present at any announcement concerning the new coach for the French side, signaling continuity or transition in a controlled, orderly fashion.
Yet Diallo added a provocative twist by casting doubt on Zidane’s candidacy, describing the current moment as a phase of “false suspense” and underscoring that several factors could prevent Zidane from taking the helm despite the strong public sentiment.
Deschamps’ Journey with the Blues
The current coach, 57, has built an extraordinary résumé, guiding France to World Cup glory in 2018 and a Euro 2016 silver medal. His tenure has spanned more than a decade, with moments of triumph and tension as he navigated relationships with star players while delivering competitive results.
In the current year, Deschamps has steered the national team in ten matches, winning seven, drawing one, and losing twice. The team has netted 24 goals and conceded 11, including a bronze in the Nations League as part of a mixed but productive run.
As the World Cup cycle nears, Deschamps’ total in charge rises to 175 matches with 113 victories, 32 draws, and 30 defeats, underscoring a substantial legacy built through consistency and resilience—traits any successor would study closely.
With the World Cup path ahead, the door barely ajar for Zidane’s legend remains open, even as the federation keeps its cards close to the chest. The public’s appetite for a definitive decision persists, alongside a steady drumbeat of rumors and hopeful memes on social media.
In the end, the federation’s leaders insist planning with clarity, not noise, should guide the transition, while fans brace for a summer of anticipation and a winter of speculations. The question remains: will Zidane finally reach the French bench, or will the wait continue to sharpen the blade of suspense?
Punchline time: If Zidane lands the job, France might finally win something by design instead of sheer luck—talk about strategic hair gel meeting tactical genius.
Another one: In world football, the only thing more debated than a formation is a haircut—Zidane could turn both into a national sport with this job."
