In the ever-evolving world of football, major changes are always on the horizon, and one of the most talked-about shifts is in the French national team. After Didier Deschamps announced his decision to step down from his position as coach of Les Bleus following the 2026 World Cup, speculation about his successor has been rife. Amidst this uncertainty, Real Madrid\u2019s star striker, Kylian Mbapp\u00e9, has made his preference clear, revealing who he believes should be the next manager of the French team.<\/p>\n
Deschamps, who has been at the helm for a remarkable 14 years, stated that his departure had been on his mind for quite some time. \u201cIt\u2019s been very clear in my head for a long time,\u201d he confessed during a press conference. \u201cAll good things must come to an end. It will be 14 years, that\u2019s enough! No one is irreplaceable.\u201d His tenure, which includes leading France to victory in the 2018 World Cup and a runner-up finish at the 2022 World Cup, has been marked by significant achievements, but now the French Football Federation (FFF) must look to the future.<\/p>\n
With Deschamps\u2019 departure set for after the 2026 World Cup, the search for his successor is already underway. Many names have been floated, but one stands out among the fans and players alike\u2014Zin\u00e9dine Zidane. The legendary former player, who has a storied history with French football, has long been a fan favorite to take over the reins of Les Bleus. Zidane has also expressed his desire to manage the national team, turning down lucrative offers from other clubs in recent years, indicating his preference to wait for the right opportunity to coach his country.<\/p>\n
Among the many supporters of Zidane\u2019s potential appointment is Kylian Mbapp\u00e9, who has made no secret of his admiration for the French icon. The two share a relationship based on mutual respect, and Mbapp\u00e9 has often praised Zidane\u2019s influence on the game. \u201cZidane is a legend, he is France,\u201d Mbapp\u00e9 once said in response to the controversial remarks made by former FFF president No\u00ebl Le Gra\u00ebt, who had dismissed Zidane\u2019s potential to lead the national team. Mbapp\u00e9\u2019s firm stance on the matter highlighted his belief that Zidane\u2019s legacy and leadership are indispensable for the future of French football.<\/p>\n
At a recent press conference, Mbapp\u00e9 was once again asked about the prospect of Zidane becoming the new coach of France. His response was unequivocal. Mbapp\u00e9 emphasized that Zidane\u2019s appointment would be an ideal choice for the future of the team, reflecting the widespread sentiment among French fans and pundits. \u201cIf Zidane takes charge, it would be a great honor to play under him,\u201d Mbapp\u00e9 stated. \u201cWe know what he represents not only for France but for football as a whole.\u201d<\/p>\n
Zidane\u2019s name has always been associated with success. As a player, he was instrumental in France\u2019s 1998 World Cup triumph and their victory in the UEFA Euro 2000. As a coach, Zidane led Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles, cementing his place as one of the most accomplished figures in football. His tactical acumen, calm demeanor, and ability to manage star players make him a perfect fit for the French national team, which boasts a wealth of talent across the pitch.<\/p>\n
However, Zidane\u2019s return to football management has not been without its challenges. After stepping down from his role at Real Madrid in 2021, Zidane has remained largely out of the limelight, choosing to focus on his family and personal projects. Yet, despite his time away from the game, the desire to return to the dugout remains strong. He has consistently stated that he would love the opportunity to manage the French national team, and the prospect of working with players like Mbapp\u00e9, Antoine Griezmann, and N\u2019Golo Kant\u00e9 is undoubtedly an enticing one.<\/p>\n
For now, Zidane\u2019s future remains uncertain, but with Deschamps\u2019 impending departure, the stage is set for a new era in French football. The question of who will take charge after the 2026 World Cup is one that will dominate discussions in the coming years, and Zidane\u2019s name will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of those conversations.<\/p>\n
Mbapp\u00e9, who continues to shine for both Real Madrid and the French national team, is poised to be a central figure in the transition. His leadership on the pitch, along with his influence off it, makes him one of the key players in shaping the future of the national team. While his support for Zidane\u2019s appointment is clear, Mbapp\u00e9 is also focused on his own goals, including leading France to further glory on the international stage.<\/p>\n
The possibility of Zidane taking over as France\u2019s head coach could also have significant implications for the squad\u2019s dynamics. Many players, particularly those who have worked with Zidane during his time at Real Madrid, would welcome his return with open arms. Players like Karim Benzema, Raphael Varane, and Paul Pogba, who have all experienced Zidane\u2019s management at the club level, could bring valuable insights into the national team setup.<\/p>\n
Beyond the tactical and technical aspects, Zidane\u2019s appointment would be a symbolic one. As a player, Zidane embodied the values of French football\u2014grace, power, and determination. He became a national hero for his performances on the pitch and his leadership during France\u2019s golden era. His return as head coach would not only signify a new chapter for the national team but also serve as a reminder of the legacy that he built during his playing days.<\/p>\n
In the meantime, Zidane remains patient, keeping a low profile while waiting for the right opportunity. His current focus is on his family, personal projects, and participating in community events, including his love for padel tennis. But as the 2026 World Cup approaches, the prospect of Zidane leading Les Bleus will undoubtedly become a focal point for French football fans.<\/p>\n
Mbapp\u00e9\u2019s support for Zidane is more than just a professional endorsement\u2014it\u2019s a deep respect for a man who has inspired him throughout his career. Mbapp\u00e9 has often spoken of his admiration for Zidane\u2019s influence on his own development, citing the French legend as one of his idols growing up. To have the opportunity to play under Zidane would be a dream come true for the 25-year-old forward, who is already considered one of the best players in the world.<\/p>\n
As France looks ahead to the post-Deschamps era, all eyes will be on Zidane. Will he take the helm of Les Bleus in 2026? Only time will tell, but with Mbapp\u00e9\u2019s endorsement and the widespread fan support, the possibility of this legendary partnership becoming a reality seems ever more likely.<\/p>\n
For now, the French national team must focus on the upcoming challenges, but the future is bright with the prospect of Zidane leading the charge. And for Mbapp\u00e9, the chance to work under his idol could be the next great chapter in his already illustrious career. Whether or not Zidane takes the reins, one thing is certain: the future of French football is in safe hands, with players like Mbapp\u00e9 ready to carry the legacy forward.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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