'I am not one of his intimate friends!' - Didier Deschamps gives insight into relationship with Zinedine Zidane as ex-Real Madrid boss is linked with France national team post

Since taking charge of France in 2012, Deschamps has overseen an era of remarkable success, guiding the team to victory at the 2018 World Cup and leading them to two additional major finals - Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Despite his accomplishments, it has been confirmed that Deschamps will step down from his role following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With an official timeline now set for his departure, speculation has intensified over who will take the reins.

Zidane has long been tipped as a future France manager, with his coaching achievements at Real Madrid making him an ideal candidate. His first stint in charge of the Spanish giants saw him claim three consecutive Champions League titles in just two-and-a-half years, an extraordinary feat that solidified his reputation as one of football’s finest tacticians. Now, with Deschamps’ departure date set, Zidane has emerged as the leading contender to lead Les Bleus.

Although Deschamps and Zidane have shared the pitch as teammates for both Juventus and Les Bleus, rumours have long suggested that the two do not see eye to eye. However, in a recent interview with Le Figaro, Deschamps refuted the notion of a bitter rivalry, emphasizing that while they may not be close friends, there is a strong sense of mutual respect between them.

“Another great preconceived idea!” began the France manager. “We spent a lot of years together. There is still a lot of respect between us. By the way, the last time we saw each other, we exchanged and talked well...there is still, on both sides, a form of recognition of each other’s success. I am not one of his intimate friends. We both have our own lives but whatever happens, there will always be respect between us."

As the countdown begins to World Cup 2026, all eyes will be on Zidane and the French Football Federation (FFF) to see whether the long-awaited transition finally takes place. If Zidane does take over, he will have the challenge of maintaining the high standards set by Deschamps while bringing his unique philosophy to the national team.