Zinedine Zidane expected to replace Didier Deschamps as head coach of France

Zinedine Zidane is set to replace Didier Deschamps as the head coach of the French national football team following the 2026 World Cup. Deschamps will lead his final match against England for third place this Saturday, ending his fourteen-year tenure. Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that a full agreement has been reached between Zidane and the French Football Federation. The contract, which is expected to be signed this month, was expedited to be finalized before July 21 to avoid complications with a new French law capping federation salaries at 450,000 euros annually. Zidane will reportedly earn 300,000 euros monthly, with bonuses potentially increasing that amount to the legal limit. While reports confirm the deal is nearing completion, some sources note that the final signature is pending final formalities. Zidane is tasked with leading France through the Nations League, Euro 2028, and the 2030 World Cup cycle. This appointment marks his return to coaching after leaving Real Madrid in 2021.