Deschamps will leave his position after France finishes competing in this summer's World Cup. According to media reports, Zidane is the top candidate to succeed him.

In an interview with Le Figaro on 23/3, when asked if Zidane would be the future coach of the French national team, Philippe Diallo, President of the country's Football Federation, smiled and replied, "Yes, I already know the name of the next coach. Please contact us after the World Cup. France is one of the world's strongest teams, and not everyone is capable of leading it. This job requires a coach with many qualities and the support of the fans."

Zidane coached Real in La Liga in 5/2021. *Photo: Reuters*

Diallo also stated that he had received fewer than 5 job applications, all from local candidates. According to the French press, Zidane was chosen early and underwent a detailed negotiation process lasting many weeks. The two sides took time negotiating because Zidane wanted a larger coaching staff compared to Deschamps' era.

During his playing career, Zidane was the most important player in France's journey to win the 1998 World Cup, Euro 2000, and reach the 2006 World Cup final. He also succeeded as a coach, helping Real win the Champions League three consecutive times and two La Liga titles.

Zidane stopped working after his second tenure at Real concluded in 2021. He had previously declined offers from several other major clubs to wait for the national team coaching position.

Deschamps has coached France since 2012. He won the 2018 World Cup, reached the finals of Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup, and won the 2021 Nations League. Deschamps was also a teammate of Zidane at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000.

By Thanh Quy (Source: Le Figaro)