Manchester United fans may need to brace themselves. Reports suggest Zinedine Zidane is secretly preparing to take over as France manager. This development could put an end to long-running rumors about him taking the Old Trafford job.
Didier Deschamps has confirmed he will leave the France national team after the 2026 World Cup. Zidane is reportedly high on the shortlist to succeed him, leaving many to question Manchester United’s managerial direction.
- Zinedine Zidane is reportedly preparing to take over as France manager after Didier Deschamps steps down post-2026 World Cup.
- Manchester United fans remain uncertain about the future of current boss Ruben Amorim following mixed results this season.
- Zidane’s success at Real Madrid and status as a free agent make him one of the most sought-after coaches in world football.
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THE CONTEXT
Zinedine Zidane, 53, has not coached since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. During his time at Los Blancos, he won two league titles, three Champions League trophies, and two FIFA Club World Cups.
Machester United have struggled to find a consistent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson retired 12 years ago. Recent rumors linking Zidane to Old Trafford have persisted, especially amid ongoing concerns about Ruben Amorim’s performance.
BEYOND THE HEADLINES
According to L’Equipe, Zidane has his eyes firmly set on the France role. Didier Deschamps, 56, announced earlier this year that he would leave the national team after the 2026 World Cup in North America. Zidane reportedly wants to step into the position once it becomes available.
Zidane told Adidas in May:
“I feel legitimate in the French national team, where I played and spent almost 12, 13, or 14 years as a player. Of course, it’s a dream. I can’t wait.”
His international ambitions could end speculation linking him to Manchester United, leaving fans to wonder what comes next for the Premier League club.
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WHAT WAS SAID
Deschamps praised Zidane’s credentials and potential as his successor:
“There is a lot of respect between us. We saw each other last time in the summer of 2023, we should see each other again next summer, for the same reasons. Zizou is a very good candidate, natural and I would add expected. Afterwards, I don’t know if he will want to.”
Meanwhile, United supporters are still backing Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese manager, 40, has been in charge for less than a year. The club won its first game of the season against Burnley, but the injury-time victory highlighted ongoing challenges. Last season, United finished 15th—their lowest ever in Premier League history—and exited the EFL Cup early after a loss to Grimsby.
WHAT COMES NEXT
It seems likely Zidane will focus on the France job, given his immense club achievements and desire for international football.
Manchester United meanwhile, must address their current managerial uncertainty. Amorim’s side returns from the international break to face a Premier League derby against Manchester City this Sunday. Fans will be watching closely to see if the Red Devils can climb up the table or if Zidane’s absence from club football discussions leaves further doubts over the team’s direction.
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