Zidane to Replace Deschamps as France coach after Didier Deschamps confirms his departure following the 2026 World Cup

PARIS, France, July 15 – Zinedine Zidane is set to become the next head coach of the France national team after Didier Deschamps confirmed the end of his tenure following Les Bleus’ 2-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final.

Also read: Spain Make History After Beating France 2-0 in World Cup

Deschamps, who has led France since 2012 and guided the team to the 2018 World Cup title, had already announced before the tournament that he would leave the role after the competition.

His final match in charge will now be the World Cup third-place play-off against either England or Argentina this weekend, bringing an end to one of the most successful managerial eras in French football history.

The expected appointment of Zidane marks a major transition for the national team. The former France captain has long been viewed as the leading candidate to succeed Deschamps, having enjoyed significant success during his managerial spell at Real Madrid.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the expected change in a post on X, writing: “OFFICIAL: Didier Deschamps’ cycle as France head coach comes to an end. It’s over.”

Romano added that Deschamps’ final match would be the third-place play-off before “the start of Zinedine Zidane era.”

The development brings together two of France’s most iconic football figures.

Zidane was a key member of the France team that won the 1998 World Cup and later built a reputation as one of Europe’s most successful club managers.

During his time at Real Madrid, Zidane won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, becoming one of the most decorated coaches of the modern era.

His expected arrival comes as France prepare for a new chapter following Deschamps’ long spell in charge.

Under Deschamps, France reached three major tournament finals, winning the 2018 World Cup and finishing runners-up at the 2022 World Cup.

Also read: Spain Make History After Beating France 2-0 in World Cup

The transition is expected to attract major attention as Zidane takes responsibility for a talented generation of French players and attempts to maintain the country’s status among international football’s elite.