Zidane’s Quiet Return? France Could Be in Line for a Stylish Comeback After 2026

Zidane Nears Return to France Coaching

The former France and Real Madrid manager, Zinedine Zidane, is reportedly nearing a return to coaching, with rumors pointing to the France national team after the 2026 World Cup. The report, coming from a Spanish outlet, suggests that talks are progressing as Zidane weighs a possible second act in international football.

Since leaving Real Madrid in the summer of 2021, Zidane has not led any club, though he has repeatedly left the door open with comments about a forthcoming return. Industry chatter has swirled around his next step, especially as his representatives reportedly evaluate several high-profile offers.

In parallel, Didier Deschamps’ long run as France coach—now entering its second decade—continues to shape when and how Zidane could return. The French program has not yet set a definitive end date for Deschamps, who would likely oversee a transition only after the 2026 finals in North America. Rumors also hint at possible interest from Saudi clubs for Zidane, reflecting a broader trend of European coaches drawing new options on the Middle East scene.

Historically, Zidane’s coaching impact is defined by his Real Madrid tenure, where he steered the club to multiple European successes during two spells. His record includes three consecutive Champions League titles and a total of 11 trophies with Real Madrid, underscoring why he remains a focal point of speculation about France’s future leadership.

Meanwhile, France prepared for a European World Cup qualifying match against Azerbaijan. The fixture is part of Group D’s sixth round, with the outcome potentially influencing France’s path to the 2026 finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico. In the build-up, coach Deschamps faced selection decisions, including the late call for Florent Thauvin to replace the injured Randal Kolo Muani, who sustained a jaw fracture in recent days.

Television and press coverage have repeatedly noted Zidane’s name in connection with both national and club roles, with TF1’s coverage reiterating that Zidane has received calls from Saudi clubs but has not publicly committed to any specific destination. The star coach’s potential move to Saudi football would align with an already dynamic transfer market in the region, which has drawn several European stars in recent years.

As for France’s on-field performance, Deschamps remains a central figure in the country’s footballing narrative. His team continues to balance an emergent generation with a veteran core, aiming to secure a strong showing in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and beyond. The Lus of speculation around Zidane’s future is likely to persist until a formal decision is announced, if it ever is.

In a broader context, Zidane’s name remains synonymous with elegance in football management: a blend of tactical discipline, a calm leadership style, and a reputation for extracting peak performances from star players. Whatever the outcome, his name alone continues to spark conversation about France’s next era of success.

Punchlines coming soon, because if football has learned anything from Zidane, it’s that the head-turn can be as influential as the head coach. Punchline 1: If Zidane signs, expect a formation so stylish even the offside line will pause to pose for a selfie. Punchline 2: Deschamps may retire to a sunny beach, while Zidane brings the heat and the croissants to a whole new level of national pride.