After a strong run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, France faces a major transition as Zinedine Zidane is poised to replace Didier Deschamps as head coach of Les Bleus, signaling the end of an era for the long-serving manager.
France’s campaign ended in the semi-finals with a 2-0 defeat to Spain on July 14 in Arlington, Texas. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was fouled, and Pedro Porro added a second in the 58th minute with a clinical finish from a swift counter.
Despite dominating possession at times and boasting stars like Kylian Mbappé, France struggled to create clear chances, managing just one shot on target. Spain’s disciplined defense and goalkeeper Unai Simón’s heroics proved decisive, extending their recent dominance over Les Bleus.
Deschamps, 58, will bow out after the third-place playoff against England on Saturday, concluding a remarkable 14-year tenure that began in 2012. His record with France is exceptional: he guided them to the 2018 World Cup title, a 2022 final (lost on penalties to Argentina), a Euro 2016 final, and the 2021 UEFA Nations League victory.
In World Cup matches alone, Deschamps amassed a historic tally, becoming the coach with the most victories in the tournament’s history (surpassing Helmut Schön’s 16 wins).
Across four World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022, 2026), his side achieved deep runs, including multiple quarter-finals and semi-finals, with a strong emphasis on second-half surges and tactical discipline.
Overall, Deschamps oversaw around 180+ matches for France, with over 110 wins, a win and consistent qualification success. He fostered a winning culture, blending youth and experience while navigating high expectations.
His exit marks the close of a chapter defined by resilience, major trophies, and near-misses. France will play for third place, but the focus has already shifted behind the scenes.
Zidane, the 54-year-old former captain and 1998 World Cup/Euro 2000 winner, is the chosen successor, according to reports from Fabrizio Romano. The decision is finalized, with Zidane expected to take charge for the Nations League, Euro 2028, and the 2030 World Cup. He will earn around €300,000 per month base salary, potentially rising to €450,000 with bonuses.
As a player, Zidane was a maestro elegant, visionary, and clutch. His managerial record at Real Madrid (2016-2018 and 2019-2021) is stellar: 263+ games, roughly 174 wins, three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles (a historic feat), two La Liga crowns, two Spanish Super Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, and two Club World Cups.