France are set for a new chapter on the sidelines after the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with one of the country's greatest football icons expected to take charge of the national team. The change has been anticipated for months following Didier Deschamps' decision to step down after the tournament, ending a highly successful 14-year spell in charge of Les Bleus. While an official announcement is still awaited, reports suggest the process is now entering its final stages.

Zinedine Zidane is expected to become the next head coach of the France men's national team, with reports indicating that the decision had been made months ago. The 54-year-old has reportedly finalised his coaching staff, while the remaining paperwork is expected to be formally signed later this month before his appointment is confirmed.

The former Real Madrid manager has long been regarded as the natural successor to Deschamps, having enjoyed immense success at club level by winning three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles and multiple domestic honours. His appointment has been widely anticipated ever since Deschamps confirmed he would leave the national team after the World Cup.

Once officially appointed, Zidane is expected to lead France into the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign before taking charge of their Euro 2028 and 2030 FIFA World Cup ambitions. His arrival is expected to mark the beginning of a new era for Les Bleus as they aim to build on the foundations left by Deschamps and return to major international success.

Zinedine Zidane's trophy-laden coaching journey with Real Madrid

Zinedine Zidane's coaching career has been remarkably successful despite spanning only a few years. After retiring as one of football's greatest players, he began his managerial journey at Real Madrid, initially serving as a special adviser before becoming assistant coach to Carlo Ancelotti during the 2013-14 season. He then took charge of Real Madrid Castilla, the club's reserve side, where he gained valuable experience working with young players and preparing for senior management.

In January 2016, Zidane was appointed head coach of Real Madrid's first team following Rafael Benitez's departure. His impact was immediate as he guided the Spanish giants to the UEFA Champions League title in his debut season. He followed that triumph by leading Madrid to two more consecutive Champions League crowns in 2017 and 2018, becoming the first manager in the competition's modern era to win three straight European titles. During his first spell, he also won the La Liga title, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and Spanish Super Cup, establishing himself among the game's elite managers.

Zidane stepped down in 2018 before returning for a second stint in March 2019. He rebuilt the squad and steered Real Madrid to another La Liga title in the 2019-20 season, along with another Spanish Super Cup. He left the club in 2021 after winning 11 major trophies across his two spells, making him one of the most decorated coaches in Real Madrid history. His calm leadership, man-management skills and ability to deliver success in high-pressure matches have earned him worldwide admiration.