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Zinedine Zidane Emerges as France Manager Amid Manchester United Links

2026-06-24 · Zinedine Zidane · Player Focus

Zinedine Zidane Emerges as France Manager Amid Manchester United Links

Zinedine Zidane has reached a verbal agreement to take over as France manager after the 2026 World Cup.

What happened?

France manager Didier Deschamps refused to comment on reports linking Zidane to the Les Blues hotseat. Deschamps is set to step down after the 2026 World Cup. Zidane has been linked with the job for several years.

Why it matters for Zinedine Zidane

Zidane has been out of work since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in 2021. He won three Champions Leagues and two La Liga titles as Los Blancos head coach. Zidane has never closed the door on management and recently hinted that a return to the dugout wasn't far away. He said "it will happen soon" in November last year.

What comes next?

French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo suggested that an announcement could be made soon. Diallo said "I invite you to join us after the World Cup" when asked if Zidane was the next France boss. Zidane's former international team-mate Nicolas Anelka expects him to get the job. Anelka said "I think it will be Zidane" and that he's the best choice. Zidane has been linked with the Manchester United job on several occasions. However, he's reluctant to work in the UK due to his limited command of the English language. Manchester United fans may be disappointed by the news. Interim head coach Michael Carrick is now favourite to land the job on a permanent basis. Carrick has won seven of his first 10 matches at the helm. The news may have faded any urgency to pursue Zidane. Zidane's appointment as France manager would be a significant development in his career. He has made no secret of his ambition to one day manage France. The feeling is believed to be mutual, with the FFF reportedly positioning Zidane as the heir to Deschamps' throne. According to Diallo, "fewer than five" individuals applied for the France job. Diallo said "it takes a profile that ticks many boxes" to be the next France manager. Zidane's experience and success as a coach make him a strong candidate for the job. He will be a good leader for the French players, according to Anelka. The announcement of Zidane's appointment is expected to be made soon. It will be a significant moment in French football history. Zidane's future as France manager is looking bright. He is set to take over after the 2026 World Cup. The World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 14 to July 15, 2026. Zidane will have a significant impact on French football. He is a highly respected coach and former player. His appointment as France manager will be a major development in the football world.

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