Zinédine Zidane is poised to succeed Didier Deschamps as France national team manager, with the French Football Federation (FFF) targeting a contract signature by 21st July, RMC Sport reports.
The former Real Madrid coach has long been the favourite for the role and has held out specifically for the French position despite other opportunities. RMC Sport understands that Zidane’s contract is prepared but remains unsigned. The federation aims to formalise the agreement within days of the World Cup concluding, with the 21st July date set as the firm deadline for completion.
Zidane’s appointment would end prolonged speculation regarding Deschamps’ successor. The 1998 World Cup winner arrives with previous managerial experience at the highest club level, having departed Real Madrid in 2021.
Deschamps prepares for final bow
Deschamps, who has led Les Bleus since 2012, will take charge of his final match on Saturday. France face England in the third-place play-off after falling to Spain in the semi-finals.
The 56-year-old had hoped to bow out in Sunday’s final, but defeat to the Spanish ended that possibility. Instead, Saturday’s fixture represents his farewell appearance, concluding an era that included World Cup triumph in 2018 and a runners-up finish four years later. His tenure has seen France reach two World Cup finals and win one, cementing his status as one of the country’s most successful managers.
Zidane’s backroom overhaul
The incoming manager plans significant structural changes to the national team setup. Zidane intends to arrive with an expanded entourage of 25 staff members, a substantial increase from Deschamps’ current operation.
Sources indicate the former midfielder also wants to increase female representation within the backroom staff. This shift would mark a structural change in how the national team operates behind the scenes, potentially bringing fresh perspectives to the squad’s preparation and support systems.
While the contract awaits Zidane’s signature, the framework appears settled. The official announcement should follow shortly after the tournament ends, allowing the new era to begin as attention turns to the next cycle of international football.