'I'm looking forward to it' - Zinedine Zidane eyeing 'dream' role as France manager after 'putting career on hold'

After rejecting numerous coaching roles in recent years, the former Real and Juventus midfielder says he is "looking forward" to leading France in the dugout one day. Zidane also admitted he has been waiting for the right opportunity to come along.

He said of potentially replacing Didier Deschamps at the helm, via Marca: "There's a coach in charge [of France, there's a team, and you have to respect everything, and that's what we do. I've always respected football and the people, so it's not the right time. But when the time comes, it will be a great pleasure if the opportunity arises. I've put my career on hold for a while, but I fully feel like a coach."

Zidane added: "It's a dream, I'm looking forward to it."

Zidane has not managed since taking charge of Madrid for a second time between 2019-21. His two stints with the Spanish giants were hugely successful, as he delivered multiple La Liga and Champions League titles. With current France boss Deschamps set to step down after the 2026 World Cup, Zidane will be one of the favourites to succeed him.

The 52-year-old Zidane, who would happily manage Madrid again or France for the first time, is reportedly expected to replace Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup. It may just be a matter of time before that is announced.