The France national team is enjoying stability on the pitch but plenty of noise off it. The debate over the future of the French dugout is back on the table, and this time the main figure is none other than Zinedine Zidane. According to recent comments from Thierry Henry, all signs point to the former Real Madrid manager being chosen to take over once Didier Deschamps’ contract ends in July 2026.

The 1998 World Cup winner and 2006 runner-up has been out of management for three years, since his last stint with Real Madrid, where he won three consecutive Champions League titles —a historic achievement no other coach has matched.

Henry all but confirms it

In an interview, Thierry Henry was blunt: “We all know who the next coach will be. You know it, I know it. All I can do is wish him the best.” A clear message that many interpreted as confirmation that Zidane already has an agreement in place to take charge after the 2026 World Cup.

Until then, Deschamps will remain in charge with the mission of guiding France through qualification and the tournament itself. Nevertheless, Zidane’s shadow already looms over the team’s future, fueling the excitement of French fans who dream of seeing their historic idol manage the national side.

France wins, but looks to the future

Meanwhile, France continues its path through the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With Kylian Mbappé in unstoppable form —already scoring 52 goals for Les Bleus, surpassing Thierry Henry and closing in on Olivier Giroud’s record— the team defeated Iceland in a match marked by refereeing controversy and the sending off of Aurélien Tchouaméni.

Beyond the result, the team’s performance and the leadership of its captain reinforce the notion that France’s future on the pitch is secure. The big question, however, remains on the bench: will Zinedine Zidane’s arrival materialize once Deschamps’ cycle ends?

For now, the French Football Federation remains silent, but the rumor already feels like a certainty: when the time comes for the handover, the man who lifted the 1998 World Cup will be the one to lead the new generation of French stars.