Zinedine Zidane is preparing to return to the helm of the French national team.

The return of Zinedine Zidane to the helm of football seems closer than ever, with rumors that have become almost a certainty. Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation (FFF), let slip, without revealing names, that there is already a verbal agreement for Zidane to take over as national team coach after the 2026 World Cup. This revelation is stirring the football world, especially after a long absence of Zidane from the sidelines, since he left Real Madrid in 2021.

Zidane’s departure from the Madrid club took many by surprise. He made it clear that he did not feel supported by the club’s hierarchy in an open letter that left fans perplexed. Since then, the former French player has been linked to several top teams, including a return to Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus. However, Zidane has rejected all the proposals presented to him so far, maintaining a strategic silence that has fueled speculation.

Diallo, in statements to Le Figaro, confirmed that he knows the successor to Didier Deschamps for the French national team, and the name gaining traction is Zidane. According to journalist Julien Laurens, there is already an understanding between the parties for Zidane to take the reins of the French national team immediately after the competition that will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This change was already expected, as Deschamps’ departure has been officially confirmed.

Zidane’s relationship with Kylian Mbappé, the star forward of Real Madrid, is a key point to highlight. Zidane played a fundamental role in Mbappé’s signing, and now, both are about to join forces in the French national team, which promises to be an explosive partnership. Additionally, Zidane also influenced the arrival of other talents at the club, such as Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga, and the expectation is that these players will be crucial under his leadership.

The prospect of Zidane leading Les Bleus brings new hope for fans of French football, who are eagerly awaiting a new cycle under his guidance. His experience, game vision, and ability to manage stars are qualities that make him an ideal candidate to revitalize the national team. With the World Cup on the horizon, France may be on the verge of entering a new glorious era.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.