Aballou: A site made by fans, for fans

Saudi Arabia's Bold Bid: Deschamps at the Helm for a 2034 World Cup Dream

19 December 2025

Saudi Arabia's Bold Bid: Deschamps at the Helm for a 2034 World Cup Dream
Deschamps may lead Saudi’s bold 2034 World Cup project.

Saudi eyeing Deschamps for 2034 World Cup project

Saudi Arabia's football federation has begun talks with Didier Deschamps, France's national team coach, to steer a bold project aimed at elevating Saudi football in coming years.

According to Sky Sports, Deschamps has been approached by the Saudi federation, though discussions do not relate to leading the Green after 2026.

The network said the federation has made solid progress toward recruiting Deschamps, who enjoys a prestigious reputation and a strong coaching résumé, to benefit from his extensive experience in building a generation able to compete with the world's best by 2034, a World Cup hosted by this kingdom.

Sources indicate Saudi FA seeks Deschamps to upgrade all national teams—youth, junior, and the senior squad.

The federation plans to present an extraordinary offer, aligned with the project’s ambitions, granting him full authority to craft a national technical plan and sustain Saudi football's long-term vision.

The source stressed that Saudi Arabia sees Deschamps as the primary target to turn global ambitions into tangible sporting reality in coming years.

Earlier reports had claimed Deschamps could leave the French national team after the 2026 World Cup, to be replaced by fellow Frenchman Zidane.

Punchline 1: If the deal goes through, the training ground will be so precise even the whistle will whistle back.

Punchline 2: And if it crashes, at least the spreadsheet will get the blame.

Author

Avatar

Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Saudi Arabia negotiating with for the project?

Didier Deschamps, the France national team coach.

What is the goal of the project?

To develop Saudi football across all levels and compete with the world’s best by 2034, when the World Cup will be hosted in the kingdom.

Is this related to the 2026 World Cup?

No, discussions are not about Deschamps taking charge after 2026; they focus on a longer-term plan.