After a full four years out of work, Zinedine Zidane is now said to be close to ending his long wait for a return to management.
In May 2021, Zidane announced his departure from Real Madrid after going trophyless for the entire season.
Perhaps not many would have expected him to remain without a job for four years, but that's exactly how things have unfolded, with the Frenchman reportedly turning down several approaches.
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Over the years, there has reportedly been genuine interest in his services, including from Manchester United, clubs in Saudi Arabia, and the United States national team.
However, reports from France have long suggested that his only real interest lies in either taking charge of the national team or managing Paris Saint-Germain.
His hopes of taking over the France national team received a boost earlier this year when Les Bleus’ current boss, Didier Deschamps, revealed that he plans to step down from his role after the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
Now, journalist Gilbert Brisbois from French publication RMC Sport has claimed that Zidane will be announced as the next head coach of France.
According to Defensa Central, Brisbois said: “Didier Deschamps will leave in 2026. In a year, we will have Zidane! What joy! It’s done, it’s decided.”
Notably, should Zidane be confirmed as France’s next manager, it will be his first national team role, with his previous experience limited to two stints as Real Madrid head coach.
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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