Zinedine Zidane Expresses Excitement For Potential France National Team Management Role

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Zinedine Zidane has expressed his aspiration to manage the French national football team. Didier Deschamps, who has been at the helm since July 2012, plans to step down after the 2026 World Cup in North America. Under Deschamps, France won the 2018 World Cup and the Nations League in 2020-21. They were runners-up in both the 2022 World Cup and the 2016 European Championships.

France has not yet announced Deschamps' successor, but Zidane is a strong contender for the role. Speaking at an Adidas event, Zidane shared his enthusiasm: "I feel qualified for the French team, where I played and spent practically 12, 13, 14 years as a player. Of course, it's a dream. I can't wait."

Since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, Zidane has been without a managerial position. During his tenure at Madrid, he achieved remarkable success by winning three consecutive Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018. Additionally, he secured two UEFA Super Cups, two FIFA Club World Cups, and two LaLiga titles.

In his time managing Real Madrid across two spells, Zidane won 172 out of 263 matches. His teams scored an impressive total of 596 goals during this period. This track record highlights his capability as a coach and adds weight to his potential candidacy for the French national team.

Deschamps' leadership saw France play 59 matches with a win rate of 61%, achieving victory in 36 games (D10 L13). Under his guidance, France scored 125 goals while conceding only 56. His tenure brought significant success to the national team.

As players, Zidane and Deschamps shared midfield duties when France won both the World Cup and Euro 2000. Their partnership on the field was instrumental in these victories, showcasing their synergy and understanding of each other's playing style.

Zidane's illustrious playing career included scoring twice in France's victorious final during their first World Cup win in 1998. His deep connection with the national team as both player and potential coach makes him a fitting candidate to lead Les Bleus into future competitions.