Renowned French football legend and ex-Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has expressed that coaching the French national team represents a “dream” for him, and he is eagerly looking forward to the chance to take on the position, as reported by the newspaper L’Equipe.

“I believe I have the legitimacy regarding the French national team, where I played and dedicated nearly 12, 13, or even 14 years as a player. It’s certainly a dream for me, and I can’t wait,” Zidane commented during an event held by his sponsor, Adidas.

Current France head coach Didier Deschamps has previously indicated that he will not extend his contract after the 2026 World Cup, which is set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Zidane (52), a symbol of French football and sports, has long been viewed as the top contender to replace Deschamps. Since concluding his second term as Real Madrid coach in 2021, Zidane has been without a coaching position.

In a 2022 interview with L’Equipe, he remarked:

“My story with the French national team isn’t finished. Undoubtedly I desire that role. I hope to become a coach someday. I want to complete my journey with the tricolors.”

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