Zidane Verbally Agrees to Become France National Team Manager

Manchester United's managerial search narrows as long-time target takes French national team job.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Zinedine Zidane has reportedly verbally agreed to become the next manager of the French national team, taking over from Didier Deschamps after the 2022 World Cup. This development narrows the field for Manchester United's managerial search, as Zidane had long been linked with the job at Old Trafford. Interim manager Michael Carrick has steadied the ship at United, and could now be a leading candidate for the permanent role.

Why it matters

Zidane's move to the French national team takes one of the top managerial candidates off the market for Manchester United, who have been searching for a permanent replacement after Ruben Amorim's mid-season departure. This could boost Michael Carrick's chances of landing the job full-time if he can continue United's recent upturn in form.

The details

According to reports, Zidane has 'verbally agreed' to become the new France manager after the 2022 World Cup, where current boss Didier Deschamps' contract will expire. Zidane has long expressed his desire to one day manage the French national team, calling it his 'dream job'. This news will end the long-running speculation linking Zidane with the Manchester United job, at least for now.

  • Didier Deschamps' contract as France manager expires after the 2022 World Cup.
  • Zinedine Zidane has reportedly verbally agreed to take over as France manager following the World Cup.

The players

Zinedine Zidane

A legendary French footballer who has enjoyed a successful managerial career, including winning three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid.

Didier Deschamps

The current manager of the French national team, who led France to World Cup victory in 2018.

Michael Carrick

The interim manager of Manchester United, who has steadied the ship since taking over from Ruben Amorim.

Ruben Amorim

The former Manchester United head coach who was replaced midway through the season after a rocky start.

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What they’re saying

“It will happen very soon. I'd like to be the head coach of the France team one day. I will surely return to coaching.”

— Zinedine Zidane

What’s next

With Zidane now set to take over the French national team, Manchester United will continue their search for a permanent manager, with interim boss Michael Carrick looking to further cement his case for the job with a strong finish to the season.

The takeaway

Zinedine Zidane's decision to verbally agree to become the next France manager takes one of the top candidates off the table for Manchester United, but could open the door for Michael Carrick to earn the permanent job at Old Trafford if he can maintain the team's recent improved form.