Zidane Set to Lead France as National Team Manager Post-Deschamps

Zinedine Zidane’s long-anticipated return to coaching may soon materialize, as reports from AS indicate that France is considering him for the role of national team manager after Didier Deschamps concludes his tenure at the 2026 World Cup. For months, Zidane has suggested his readiness to resume coaching duties, while France has been strategizing for the right moment to bring him back.

This transition comes at a crucial time as France seeks to rejuvenate its squad. Critics have increasingly expressed concerns about Deschamps’ management style, which has been perceived as predictable and overly cautious, relying too heavily on past methodologies. Many observers believe the team has stagnated in vital areas such as tactical adaptability, attacking diversity, and effective squad rotation.

Zidane’s potential appointment is seen as an opportunity to inject new energy into a roster brimming with talent but in dire need of innovative tactical perspectives.

As Deschamps’ contract nears its conclusion, it signals the end of a significant era in French football. Appointed in 2012 after Laurent Blanc, Deschamps elevated France to remarkable heights, securing a place in the Euro 2016 final, winning the World Cup in 2018, and reaching another World Cup final in 2022. His consistent performance over more than a decade has solidified his legacy.

However, his tenure was not without challenges. The team’s round-of-16 exit at Euro 2020, along with moments of tactical rigidity and contentious selection decisions, contributed to perceptions that France was not fully leveraging its exceptional talent.

A growing consensus among critics suggests that France has become predictable under Deschamps. Analysts have frequently cited issues such as conservative strategies, slow adjustments during matches, and an over-reliance on outdated approaches that no longer suit a squad rich in dynamic, forward-thinking talent. Throughout several games, France appeared restrained, playing within their capabilities rather than expressing their full potential.

Despite having star players like Kylian Mbappé, as well as emerging talents such as Eduardo Camavinga and Warren Zaire-Emery, the team has often adopted an overly cautious style, absorbing pressure instead of taking control of games.

Zidane’s profile sharply contrasts this current approach. His impressive achievements include three consecutive Champions League titles and a La Liga championship during his time at Madrid.

While the prospect of Zidane’s arrival excites many, Deschamps will be sorely missed. His unique personal connection with players fostered an environment of trust, continuity, and genuine care. Beyond being a tactician, he served as a stabilizing influence, adeptly managing various personalities across generations. His reliance on seasoned leaders like Hugo Lloris helped cultivate a mentoring culture that allowed younger players to acclimatize to the pressures of international competition.