Zinedine Zidane reaches verbal agreement to replace Didier Deschamps as France boss after World Cup 2026

In a significant development for the future of Les Bleus, French Football Federation (FFF) president Philippe Diallo has confirmed that the identity of the next national team manager is already decided. While Deschamps remains focused on the upcoming 2026 World Cup, the groundwork for the post-tournament transition has been completed behind the scenes.

Speaking in an interview with Le Figaro, Diallo revealed that he has been in discussions with candidates to ensure a smooth handover when the current era eventually ends.

The FFF chief had previously been cautious about undermining Deschamps, but his latest comments suggest that a formal plan is now firmly in place.

The name on everyone's lips is, unsurprisingly, Zidane. The former Real Madrid manager has been out of work since leaving the Santiago Bernabeu in 2021, and it is widely understood that he has rejected numerous lucrative offers from top European clubs and other national teams to wait for the France job.

According to Le Parisien, Zidane has reached a verbal agreement to take the reins. Diallo’s criteria for the role seem to point directly at the legendary midfielder, as the president noted the need for a figure who commands national respect and can handle the unique pressure of the position.

Despite the growing certainty surrounding Zidane, Diallo has managed to keep the finer details under wrap until now. However, his recent admission has shifted the narrative from 'if' to 'when' the legendary No.10 will take over.

"Yes, I know his name," the patron of the French Football Federation admitted when questioned about the future appointment.

Expanding on the selection process, Diallo insisted that the role requires a very specific profile. "It takes a profile that ticks many boxes and which can also be the subject of support from the French people, since this French football team is the team of the French people," he explained.

The FFF boss further noted that he had received "fewer than five applications," adding that they were "all French" because the team is one that "not everyone can pilot."

Deschamps has enjoyed an incredibly successful tenure, leading France to World Cup glory in 2018 and a second consecutive final in 2022. However, he has already confirmed the 2026 tournament will be his final bow as the head of the national side.