News Focus
- Former FFF president Noël Le Graët denies ever considering Zinedine Zidane for the France manager position
- The statement addresses Le Graët’s controversial 2022 remarks that drew criticism from captain Kylian Mbappé
- Zidane has remained unemployed since departing Real Madrid in 2021 but stands as the favourite to succeed Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup
- Le Graët acknowledges Zidane’s exceptional managerial record, including three consecutive Champions League titles
Noël Le Graët has revealed that appointing Zinedine Zidane as manager of the French national team was never an option during his presidency at the French Football Federation (FFF). The 82-year-old made this admission while reflecting on previous controversial comments he made regarding the former Real Madrid coach.
In an interview with Ouest-France, Le Graët explained that the possibility of replacing Didier Deschamps with Zidane simply never arose whilst he held office. This clarification comes in response to intense speculation that linked Zidane to the Les Bleus role following the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
During that period, many expected Zidane to take charge of the national side. Instead, Deschamps secured a contract extension. Le Graët previously faced heavy backlash when he stated he would not have answered his telephone if Zidane had called regarding the vacancy. France captain Kylian Mbappé publicly condemned these remarks as disrespectful.
Zidane has not managed any club since leaving his post at the Santiago Bernabéu three years ago. Despite this lengthy absence from the dugout, Le Graët believes the 1998 World Cup winner remains the obvious candidate to replace Deschamps when the current boss departs following the 2026 World Cup.
“A name like Zidane is impossible to hide for a very long time,” Le Graët told the French publication.
The former federation chief also praised Zidane’s coaching credentials. He highlighted the legend’s remarkable achievements during his first spell in Spain, where he guided the club to three successive Champions League triumphs. Le Graët stressed that nobody could question Zidane’s qualifications or his capability to lead the French national side in the future.