The countdown appears to have begun for Zinedine Zidane. The former Real Madrid manager is expected to be officially appointed as head coach of the French national team by next Thursday or Friday, just days after the end of the 2026 World Cup.
The French Football Federation is reportedly keen to finalize the deal as quickly as possible. Zidane’s contract is said to be ready, although it has not yet been signed. The FFF’s objective is to complete the process definitively before July 21.
Zidane’s imminent appointment and a new era for France
The appointment of the 1998 World Cup winner would mark the beginning of a new era for Les Bleus. Long considered the natural successor to Didier Deschamps, Zinedine Zidane now seems closer than ever to fulfilling his dream of becoming France’s head coach.
From a financial standpoint, the former French playmaker is expected to earn around €300,000 per month excluding bonuses. With various incentives included in his contract, his salary could rise to as much as €450,000 per month.
Zidane is also believed to want to arrive with a large staff. His future team could include more than 25 members, ranging from assistants and fitness coaches to video analysts, medical staff, and performance specialists. Barring any last-minute twist, the official announcement is now expected within the next seven days, signaling the start of a new chapter for the French national team.
