Zinédine Zidane Aspires to Coach the French National Football Team

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Zidane Reaffirms Desire to Lead France National Team

October 12, 2025

Former French football superstar Zinédine Zidane has reiterated his long-held ambition to one day manage the French national team, though he acknowledges that timing remains uncertain. The statement came on Sunday during an appearance at the Sports Festival, an event hosted by Italian sports publication La Gazzetta dello Sport.

A Future at the Helm?

“I Am Sure I’ll Come Back to Coach,” Zidane declared, while adding a note of caution regarding the immediacy of such a move. He specifically expressed a desire to lead the Bleus at some point but refrained from suggesting that chance is imminent. “In the future, and I’m not saying it’s going to happen now, what I want one day is to coach the (French) national team. We’ll see,” Zidane added.

This declaration comes as speculation mounts regarding the future of current france manager Didier Deschamps. Deschamps has led the team since 2012, achieving considerable success, including a World Cup victory in 2018. Though, his contract is set to expire after the 2026 World Cup, should France qualify, opening the door for a potential change in leadership.

Zidane’s Illustrious Career

Zidane, aged 53, is widely considered the frontrunner to replace Deschamps. The former Real Madrid manager has been taking a hiatus from coaching since leaving the spanish giants in 2021. During his tenure at Real Madrid (2016-2018 and 2019-2021),he secured an notable record,including two Spanish La Liga titles (2017,2020) and a historic three consecutive Champions League titles (2016,2017,2018). He earned 108 caps for France, scoring 31 goals, and played a pivotal role in their 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championship triumphs.

According to recent data from Statista, Zidane remains one of only three managers to have won the Champions League three times consecutively. His track record speaks for itself.

The Core of Effective Coaching

Zidane also shared his philosophy on effective coaching, emphasizing the importance of passion and the ability to inspire players. He believes a coach’s primary role is to instill energy and a strong work ethic within the team, claiming “The most meaningful thing is to have a passion for football and to want to transmit something to your players.” He estimates that coaching accounts for approximately 80% of a team’s success. He further underscored the need for a coach to communicate their vision, saying, “He transmits his energy, his desire to do things well.”

Manager	League Titles	Champions League Titles	Years at Real Madrid
Zinédine Zidane	2	3	2016-2018, 2019-2021
Carlo Ancelotti	1	2	2014-2015, 2021-Present

Did You No? Zidane is one of the few individuals to have won the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship.

Pro Tip: When analyzing potential managerial candidates, consider their past successes, tactical approach, and ability to motivate players.

What qualities do you think are most crucial for a national team manager? Do you think Zidane is the right person to take France forward?

The Evolving Role of the Football Manager

The role of a football manager has dramatically evolved over the decades. Once primarily focused on tactical instruction, modern managers are now expected to be adept at sports psychology, data analysis, media relations, and player welfare. The ability to build a cohesive team culture and manage individual personalities is also paramount. The Guardian reports that the modern manager is increasingly viewed as a ‘CEO’ of the club or national team.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zidane and the France National Team

Q: What is Zidane’s current coaching status?

A: Zidane is currently not managing any team and has been on a break since leaving Real Madrid in 2021.

Q: When will Didier Deschamps’ contract expire?

A: Didier Deschamps’ contract will expire after the 2026 World Cup, provided France qualifies for the tournament.

Q: What are Zidane’s major coaching achievements?

A: Zidane won two Spanish La Liga titles and three consecutive Champions League titles while managing Real Madrid.

Q: What does Zidane believe is the most important quality of a coach?

A: Zidane believes passion for football and the ability to inspire players are the most vital qualities for a coach.

Q: Has Zidane ever managed the France national team before?

A: No, zidane has never served as the head coach of the France national team.

Share your thoughts on Zidane’s potential appointment in the comments below!

What key challenges might Zinédine Zidane face in managing the French national team, given the existing expectations and team dynamics?

The Long-Held Ambition: Zidane and Les Bleus

For years, the speculation has swirled: will zinédine Zidane ever manage the French national football team? The desire is undeniably mutual. Zidane, a national hero after captaining France to victory in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000, has consistently been linked with the role. His success as a manager,particularly his three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid,has only intensified the calls for him to take the helm of Les Bleus. The question isn’t if he wants the job, but when the prospect will align. This article delves into the history, potential challenges, and current landscape surrounding Zidane’s aspirations to coach france.

Zidane’s Managerial Career: A Proven track Record

Zidane’s coaching career began with Real Madrid Castilla in 2014, honing his skills with the club’s reserve team.Though, it was his appointment as Real Madrid’s first-team manager in January 2016 that truly cemented his reputation.

* Real Madrid (2016-2018): A remarkable run saw him lead Real Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League titles (2016, 2017, 2018), a La Liga title (2016-17), and two FIFA Club World Cups. His tactical acumen and ability to manage a star-studded squad were widely praised.

* Second Stint at Real Madrid (2019-2021): Returning to Madrid in 2019, Zidane secured another La Liga title in 2019-20. While his second spell wasn’t as dominant as the first, it further demonstrated his capabilities at the highest level.

* Key Managerial Traits: Zidane is known for his man-management skills, fostering a strong team spirit, and adapting tactics to exploit opponent weaknesses. His ability to handle pressure and navigate high-stakes situations is a significant asset. He’s frequently enough described as a ‘player’s manager’ – someone who understands the mindset of elite footballers.

the French National Team Context: Past and Present

The position of France’s national team manager is one of the most coveted in world football. Didier Deschamps has held the role as 2012,leading Les Bleus to victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and a runner-up finish in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

* Deschamps’ Legacy: Deschamps’ success has created a complex situation.Replacing a World Cup-winning manager is always a difficult decision, even for a figure as iconic as Zidane.

* Previous Opportunities: Zidane was reportedly considered for the role on several occasions, particularly after France’s Euro 2020 disappointment. However,the French football Federation (FFF) consistently reaffirmed their faith in Deschamps.

* Current Situation (October 2025): With Deschamps’ contract extending through the 2026 World Cup, the timing of a potential transition remains uncertain. Speculation continues, fueled by Zidane’s continued availability and the FFF’s long-term planning. The upcoming Euro 2028 qualification campaign will be a crucial period.

Challenges and Opportunities for Zidane

Taking over the French national team presents both significant challenges and exciting opportunities for Zidane.

* Managing Expectations: The French public demands success. Zidane would inherit a team with high expectations and a legacy to uphold. The pressure to deliver results, particularly in major tournaments, would be immense.

* Building on Deschamps’ Foundation: Zidane would need to assess the existing squad and determine how to build upon the foundation laid by Deschamps. Balancing continuity with innovation would be key.

* Integrating Young Talent: France boasts a wealth of young talent, including players like Kylian Mbappé, Eduardo Camavinga, and Warren Zaïre-Emery. Zidane would need to effectively integrate these players into the team and nurture their potential.

* Tactical Flexibility: Modern international football requires tactical flexibility. Zidane would need to demonstrate his ability to adapt his tactics to different opponents and game situations. Analyzing opponent formations and developing counter-strategies will be vital.

* The mbappé Factor: Managing a superstar like Kylian Mbappé is a unique challenge. Zidane’s experience in handling Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid could prove invaluable.

Zidane’s Potential Impact: A New Era for Les Bleus?

Should Zidane eventually take charge of the French national team, his impact could be transformative.

* Inspiring a Generation: Zidane’s presence alone would inspire a new generation of French footballers. His legendary status and charisma would resonate with players and fans alike.

* Attacking Football: Zidane is known for his preference for attacking, posession-based football. This style of play could