As the 2026 World Cup approaches, speculation grows around Zinedine Zidane’s potential appointment as the next head coach of France’s national football team. Zidane is expected to succeed Didier Deschamps following the tournament set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico this summer.
Zidane’s Vision for the Future France Staff
Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation (FFF), hinted at Zidane’s likely nomination. In a recent interview, Diallo mentioned that he “knows the name” of Deschamps’ successor but did not provide specifics. Zidane, aged 53, has been without a managerial position since concluding his second term with Real Madrid in 2021.
Key Staff Members
Zidane is reportedly planning to bring his loyal team with him. His trusted assistants, David Bettoni and Hamidou Msaidie, are expected to join him at Clairefontaine.
- David Bettoni: 54 years old, previously managed FC Sion in Switzerland and Club Africain in Tunisia.
- Hamidou Msaidie: 50 years old, has not taken a managerial role since leaving Real Madrid. Msaidie is noted for his discreet nature and his work on brain rehabilitation following injuries.
Recently, Msaidie started a podcast with Bettoni and Zidane, where they shared experiences from their time together in Spain.
Pursuing Former 1998 Teammates
Zidane is also exploring involving former teammates from the 1998 team. He seeks individuals known for their reliability and professionalism. A frequently mentioned candidate is Alain Boghossian, 55. Boghossian served as an assistant coach for the French national team between 2008 and 2012 and currently works as a consultant for RTL and M6.
Connections with Henri Emile
In his preparations, Zidane has maintained communication with Henri Emile, an experienced figure in French football. Emile, who guided the national team from 1976 to 2008, has given Zidane valuable insights. However, he has indicated he does not plan to formally join Zidane’s staff, preferring to remain a supportive friend.
Future Staff Dynamics
As Zidane awaits official confirmation of his role, discussions regarding his staff continue in the background. The existing staff under Deschamps remains tight-lipped, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
The future of the French national team staff remains uncertain amid financial constraints faced by the FFF, including a reported deficit of €8 million. Some current members may retain their positions if they align with Zidane’s vision, similar to Deschamps’ experience during his initial hiring in 2012.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the focus for the current French team remains on preparation and performance, while the organizational leadership transition looms on the horizon.
