Zinedine Zidane remains one of the most sought-after managers in world football despite his continued absence from the dugout since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. While frequently linked to the French national team head coach position, the French Football Federation (FFF) extended Didier Deschamps’ contract through the 2026 World Cup, effectively closing that door for the immediate future.
The Status of the France National Team Job
Zinedine Zidane has long been viewed as the natural successor to Didier Deschamps. However, the path to the role is currently blocked. Following France’s run to the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, FFF president Philippe Diallo confirmed that Deschamps would remain in charge until the 2026 tournament, according to reports from BBC Sport.
Zidane has publicly expressed his desire to manage Les Bleus in the past. In a 2022 interview with L’Equipe, Zidane stated that managing the national team is his "deepest wish." Despite this, the stability of the current coaching staff and the FFF’s commitment to Deschamps mean Zidane must look elsewhere if he intends to return to management before 2026.
Zidane’s Coaching Credentials and Market Interest
Zidane’s reputation as a manager is anchored in his unprecedented success at Real Madrid. During his two spells at the Santiago Bernabéu, he secured three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, as well as two La Liga titles. According to UEFA records, he remains one of the few individuals to win the trophy as both a player and a manager.
Since his departure from Madrid in May 2021, Zidane has been linked with several high-profile clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus. However, he has remained selective, opting to stay out of club management to wait for the right project. His insistence on a specific vision has kept him away from the daily rigors of club football for over three years.
Current Landscape and Future Outlook
The landscape of international and club management is highly fluid. While Zidane has been absent from the sidelines, his name continues to surface whenever a top-tier vacancy appears.
- Didier Deschamps’ Contract: Currently runs through July 2026, covering the next FIFA World Cup cycle.
- Zidane’s Availability: The former midfielder remains a free agent, having turned down multiple offers since 2021 to maintain his focus on a role that aligns with his career ambitions.
As of late 2024, there is no indication that Zidane is close to signing with a new team. His next career move remains one of the most discussed topics in football, though he has maintained a quiet profile, focusing on personal projects and ambassadorial roles. Whether he eventually takes the helm of the French national team or returns to a club side will depend on the post-2026 landscape in international football.
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