Zinedine Zidane Confirmed as France's National Coach After 2026 World Cup, Facing Tough Nations League Group

Didier Deschamps has officially announced he will step down as France's national football team coach following the 2026 World Cup, ending a 14-year tenure. At a press conference held alongside the UEFA Nations League group draw in Brussels, Deschamps said, "I have no regrets, it’s decided. My mind is focused on the March tour, the preparation, and then the World Cup... There will be another life for me after."

Zinedine Zidane is set to succeed Deschamps as head coach starting September 2026. Zidane, who last coached Real Madrid nearly five years ago, will take charge amid a challenging Nations League campaign. France was drawn into Group A1 alongside Italy, Belgium, and Turkey.

The Nations League 2026-2027 season will begin in late September, featuring six matches across two international windows: four games from September 24 to October 6, and two from November 12 to 17. The quarter-finals are set for March 25 and 30, 2027, and the Final Four will be held from June 9 to 13, 2027.

This Nations League group is considered more competitive than before, particularly with Turkey's improved performance since replacing Israel. France topped this group in the last edition under Deschamps, finishing with 13 points and progressing to the quarter-finals before ultimately securing third place.

Zidane's debut match as France coach may be against Italy — a poignant full circle moment recalling his final match as a player in the 2006 World Cup final versus Italy, where he was controversially sent off.

Deschamps was present at the draw but will not lead the team through this Nations League season. Zidane's appointment heralds a new era for the French national team following the 2026 World Cup which takes place from June 11 to July 19, 2026.