Rabat – France national team coach Didier Deschamps has spoken out on who can replace him when he steps down after the FIFA World Cup 2026. And there is one clear name in his mind – Zinedine Zidane.
Deschamps, who has led France to World Cup and Nations League glory, will leave his post after FIFA’s next global tournament. In an interview with L’Équipe, he called Zidane a “natural choice” to take over.
“Zidane is a very good option,” Deschamps said. “There is a lot of respect between us. But in the end, it will be his choice and the decision of the French Football Federation.”
The FFF president, Philippe Diallo, echoed the same opinion, saying: “He is a legend of French and world football. He played a key role in our first World-Cup win. He has my full respect.”
Zidane has always been open to leading Kylian Mbappe’s teammates. In an interview on French TV back in 2022, he made it clear: “I want to coach France. I hope it happens one day.”
Despite stepping down, Deschamps made one thing clear – he is not retiring. “I’m leaving something that has been great for many years, but I am not stopping coaching. There are many options for the future.”
