Mbappe Reacts as Zidane Emerge as France’s Next Coach
24 March 2026
Context
Kylian Mbappe, France's captain and Real Madrid star, has weighed in on the swirling rumors that Zinedine Zidane could become the next head coach of the France national team after Didier Deschamps steps down following the 2026 World Cup. Deschamps announced in January 2025 that he would leave the job after the upcoming World Cup. Recent reports claim Zidane has reached a verbal agreement with the French Football Federation to succeed Deschamps, though an official announcement date remains undecided.
Mbappe's reaction
Mbappe told GetFootballNewsFrance that the decision rests with the federation and the president, and that the timing and the announcement will be made when appropriate. I do not know who it will be, he added, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the process.
The piece also notes that Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, said in Le Figaro that he knows the identity but preferred not to reveal the name publicly at this time.
As in the original article, the story also references ongoing discussions about Mbappe's relationship with Real Madrid and various media rumors, underscoring a saga that continues to unfold with major names and headlines.
Punchline 1 Sniper style: If Zidane takes the helm, the press conference will be less about tactics and more about which hat he will wear — fashion wins games, right?
Punchline 2 Sniper style: Mbappe quips that he does not know who the coach will be — the mystery is juicier than transfer rumors, call this Zidane the plot twist.