Didier Deschamps, the esteemed coach of the French national football team, has announced his intention to retire from coaching following the 2026 World Cup. In a recent interview with L’Équipe, Deschamps identified Zinedine Zidane as an “excellent candidate” to succeed him. “Zidane is a natural and expected candidate, although I do not know if he will accept the responsibility,” Deschamps remarked. He further stated that the decision ultimately rests with Zidane and the president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo.
Zinedine Zidane, long considered a potential successor to Deschamps, boasts an impressive track record, having secured three Champions League titles with Real Madrid. As a player, Zidane was pivotal in France’s victories in the 1998 World Cup and the 2000 European Championship.
Meanwhile, under Deschamps’ guidance, the French team is set to face Croatia in March with the aim of qualifying for the “Final Four” of the Nations League in June. Following this, they will compete in qualifying matches for the North American World Cup.
Deschamps has also confirmed that Kylian Mbappé will rejoin the team as captain in March, despite his absence from the past two camps. Mbappé, who has recently secured a place at Real Madrid, has faced various challenges, but Deschamps is confident in his continued commitment to the national team.
