Former Real Madrid tactician Zinedine Zidan remains interested in the France national team coaching job.
The 52-year-old manager has been out of coaching since departing the Spanish giants on June 2021. Zidan, who has Algeria root has been tipped to take over the France national team with current manager Didier Dechamps set to depart after the 2026 World Cup tournament.
Decamps has managed France since 2012, leading Les Bleus to the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League titles.
Given his status as one of the finest French players to ever grace the game and his record as Real Madrid manager, Zidane is the leading candidate to lead Les Bleus from 2026.
Speaking at an Adidas event on Monday in Paris, the 52-year-old legend reiterated his desire to lead the France national team.
“Of course, it’s a dream of mine. I look forward to it.” He said as quoted by L’Equipe.
Given Deschamps remains fully in charge of Les Bleus with important fixtures coming up, such as the Nations League finals and the 2026 World Cup qualifying rounds, Zidane has not fully thrown his hat into the ring out of the respect for his former France teammate, with which he won the 1998 World Cup and the 2000 Euros.
“I’ve always respected football and people, so it’s really not the right time“, Zidane said. “But when the time comes, if the opportunity arises, it will be with great pleasure.”
