Ousmane Dembele Backs Zinedine Zidane to Become France Manager After the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The future of the French national team has become one of football’s most intriguing long-term discussions. With Didier Deschamps set to step down after the FIFA World Cup 2026, attention is increasingly turning toward who will inherit one of the most prestigious managerial roles in international football.

Among those voicing a clear preference is France star Ousmane Dembele, who has publicly expressed his desire to see Zinedine Zidane become the next head coach of Les Bleus.

Dembele’s endorsement is significant not only because of his influence within the French squad but also because it reflects a growing belief among players, pundits, and supporters that Zidane’s next major challenge should be leading his country on the international stage.

Few figures in football possess a stronger connection to France’s football identity than Zidane. As both a player and manager, he has achieved legendary status, making him a natural candidate to succeed one of the most successful coaches in French football history.

Why Ousmane Dembele Wants Zidane as France Manager

Dembele’s support stems largely from Zidane’s remarkable record as a coach and his enduring influence on French football.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward highlighted Zidane’s achievements at Real Madrid, where he established himself as one of the most successful managers of the modern era.

For many players of Dembele’s generation, Zidane represents more than a football legend. He symbolizes excellence, leadership, and an understanding of what it takes to win at the highest level.

That combination of experience and credibility could prove invaluable for a French squad expected to compete for major trophies well into the next decade.

The End of the Didier Deschamps Era

Before discussing Zidane’s potential appointment, it is important to understand the scale of the challenge he would inherit.

Didier Deschamps’ tenure has been one of the most successful periods in French football history.

Since taking charge in 2012, Deschamps has transformed France into one of the most consistent teams in international football.

His ability to manage elite personalities, navigate tournament football, and maintain long-term competitiveness has established a benchmark that any successor must match.

Zinedine Zidane’s Extraordinary Coaching Resume

If there is one candidate capable of stepping into such a demanding role, many believe it is Zidane.

His managerial career may be relatively short compared to some coaching veterans, but the success he achieved at Real Madrid remains extraordinary.

Most notably, Zidane remains the only manager in modern football to win three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, an achievement that many experts consider one of the greatest coaching accomplishments in club football history.

His success demonstrated an ability to manage pressure, handle world-class players, and consistently deliver results in the sport’s biggest competitions.

Why Zidane Seems Like a Natural Fit for France

The connection between Zidane and the French national team extends far beyond tactical expertise.

He is one of the most iconic figures in the country’s sporting history.

As a player, Zidane inspired France to unprecedented success and became a national symbol through his performances in major tournaments.

His achievements include:

• Winning the FIFA World Cup.
• Winning the UEFA European Championship.
• Captaining France on the international stage.
• Becoming one of football’s most respected ambassadors.

Because of this legacy, Zidane would immediately command respect within the dressing room and among supporters.

The Challenge of Replacing Deschamps

Despite widespread support for Zidane, succeeding Deschamps will not be straightforward.

International football differs significantly from club management. Coaches have limited time with players, fewer training sessions, and must build cohesion quickly before major tournaments.

Managing France also brings unique expectations.

Anything less than competing for major trophies is often viewed as a disappointment. The pressure associated with leading one of football’s strongest nations can be immense.

However, Zidane’s experience handling expectations at Real Madrid suggests he may be uniquely equipped for the role.

What Zidane Could Bring to the French Team

If appointed, Zidane could introduce several qualities that align well with France’s current generation of players.

Potential Benefits of a Zidane Appointment

• Strong leadership and authority.
• Experience managing elite superstars.
• Calm decision-making under pressure.
• Deep understanding of tournament football.
• Exceptional man-management skills.
• Strong connection to French football culture.

Perhaps most importantly, Zidane has consistently demonstrated an ability to create winning environments without generating unnecessary controversy.

How France’s Golden Generation Could Benefit

France currently possess one of the deepest talent pools in world football.

The squad includes established stars and emerging talents capable of competing at the highest level for years to come.

A manager of Zidane’s stature could help maximize the potential of this generation while maintaining France’s position among the world’s elite teams.

Dembele Also Defends Kylian Mbappe

Dembele’s comments regarding Zidane came shortly after he publicly defended France captain Kylian Mbappe against what he described as excessive criticism.

The winger argued that scrutiny of Mbappe often becomes disproportionate because of his global profile and superstar status.

According to Dembele, Mbappe remains an exceptional player, respected leader, and vital figure within the national team setup.

His support highlights the strong unity that appears to exist within the French camp as they pursue another World Cup title.

Could Zidane and Mbappe Be the Perfect Partnership?

One of the most fascinating possibilities involves the potential relationship between Zidane and Mbappe.

Both represent different generations of French football greatness.

Zidane defined an era through elegance, creativity, and leadership. Mbappe has emerged as the modern face of French football through speed, goals, and global influence.

The combination could create a powerful foundation for future success.

Many supporters believe Zidane’s experience and football intelligence could help Mbappe elevate his leadership even further during the latter stages of his career.

Comparing Deschamps and Zidane

The comparison illustrates why the transition from Deschamps to Zidane feels both logical and exciting for many observers.

What Happens Next?

For now, France’s focus remains firmly on the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Any discussions regarding managerial succession are likely to intensify only after the tournament concludes. Much will depend on France’s performance and Zidane’s own willingness to return to coaching.

Nevertheless, momentum behind his candidacy appears stronger than ever.

With support from influential players such as Dembele and widespread backing from fans, Zidane continues to look like the most popular choice to lead France into its next era.

Conclusion

Ousmane Dembele’s endorsement of Zinedine Zidane reflects a growing consensus within football that the legendary former Real Madrid manager could be the ideal successor to Didier Deschamps.

France face the difficult task of replacing one of the most successful coaches in their history, but Zidane’s unique blend of football intelligence, leadership, winning experience, and national significance makes him a compelling candidate.

If the appointment eventually happens, it would unite one of football’s greatest players with one of its most talented national teams. For France, that combination could mark the beginning of another golden era after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.