Zinedine Zidane Edges Closer to Stunning Management Comeback as Negotiations Heat Up
The French Football Federation (FFF) has allegedly begun official procedures to name Zinedine Zidane as France's upcoming national team coach, with preparations "in progress" to build his prospective coaching team.
Zidane has remained without a club since departing Real Madrid for his second exit in May 2021. The iconic former midfielder turned coach secured 11 trophies during his managerial tenure at his previous club, including three straight Champions League victories during his initial period in command.
Following Xabi Alonso's recent departure, Zidane was connected to a potential comeback to the Bernabéu, with sources identifying the 53-year-old as the "favored" choice within the organization to once again lead the world's most prestigious club.
However, according to L'Équipe, Zidane's destiny lies in leading the France national squad. The former Real Madrid manager is anticipated to succeed Didier Deschamps after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This development comes as no shock, considering Zidane's connections to the national team, along with numerous reports connecting him to this position over recent years. Yet the rumors now carry greater significance, given the measures taken to start assembling his coaching staff.
The French publication reports that David Bettoni, Zidane's longtime deputy during his two tenures with Los Blancos, is among the top contenders to work alongside the French legend should he take charge following this summer's competition.
Zidane Hopeful to Write New Chapter With France
Zidane Hopeful to Write New Chapter With France
Although much of his professional journey, both as an athlete and coach, is characterized by his achievements at Real Madrid, Zidane's period representing Les Bleus remains a crucial element of his illustrious playing career.
The former playmaker earned 80 caps for France across his 16-year international career. Zidane netted 24 times during this period, including a brace in the 1998 World Cup final that helped secure victory over Brazil.
Naturally, not every moment was as glorious as that encounter, which took place near Paris. Eight years afterward, Zidane notoriously received a red card in the 2006 World Cup final for his headbutt on Italian defender Marco Materazzi. France subsequently fell to Italy in the penalty shootout.
When questioned in November regarding Zidane's possible return to the France national setup, Philippe Diallo, the FFF president, stated to L'Équipe: "We'll assess that when the time comes. Many developments could occur that people don't anticipate.
"Currently, as I've mentioned, I hold great admiration and respect for Zinedine Zidane, both for his contributions to French football and for his proven abilities as a manager, achieving silverware. But let's take things step by step. Right now, we're focusing on World Cup preparations."