Zinedine Zidane will succeed Didier Deschamps as France national team head coach in the summer, with a verbal agreement already reached, sources have told ESPN FC. He will officially be appointed once the 2026 World Cup is concluded for France. This deadline is no coincidence, as it would allow the coach to build a complete process, consolidate a new generation, and compete at the highest level in the next major tournament. His arrival is especially relevant as it would mark the beginning of a new era following a golden age that included the 2018 World Cup title, in addition to bringing an iconic figure back to the team who perfectly understands the country's footballing identity. In economic terms, although there is no official confirmation, it is estimated that the strategist could earn between 4 and 6 million euros annually. This figure would place him slightly above what Deschamps earned, but still far from the numbers he handled during his time at the Merengue club, where he used to pocket between 12 and 16 million per season. The difference is due to the nature of national teams, which have less demanding schedules and more moderate budgets compared to elite clubs. Thus, everything points to Zidane not taking on the challenge for financial reasons alone, but for the sporting and emotional value that comes with managing his country. His possible appointment not only generates expectation but also opens the door to a profound transformation in one of the world's most competitive teams. The arrival of Zinedine Zidane on the bench of the French national team is beginning to take shape as one of the most anticipated moves in international football. Various reports indicate that there is a verbal agreement for the former Real Madrid coach to take the position once the 2026 World Cup concludes, at which point Didier Deschamps will end his successful cycle in charge of the Gallic side. For how long would he sign? The contract Zidane would sign would be for four years, projecting him through the 2030 sporting event.
