French national team: Zinédine Zidane’s non-negotiable demand

Deschamps' likely successor wants to bring in a staff of more than 25 people

World 18 July 2026 at 10:00

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French national team: Zinédine Zidane’s non-negotiable demand

Set to succeed Didier Deschamps, Zinédine Zidane is reportedly preparing a sweeping revolution within Les Bleus, with a backroom staff that would come at a hefty price for the Federation.

Didier Deschamps is preparing to step down from Les Bleus after a fourteen-year reign. With his final appearance looming against England in the 2026 World Cup third-place play-off, the FFF is already working on his succession. Zinédine Zidane remains the clear favorite, but his appointment has yet to be made official.

According to RMC, the former Real Madrid manager has already secured the arrival of around seven trusted staff members to form the core of his team. Ultimately, his staff could surpass 25 members, including a unit dedicated to data and performance—an area Zidane is keen to make more gender-diverse.

🚨🚨 ZIDANE HAS ALREADY FINALIZED THE ARRIVAL OF AROUND 7 MEMBERS TO HIS STAFF! 🇫🇷

At the FFF, Zidane's desire to potentially bring more than 25 people is raising eyebrows, especially in terms of cost. 🤨

(@RMCsport) pic.twitter.com/OsjEan8UX4
— BeFootball (@_BeFootball) July 17, 2026

This restructuring would represent a significant investment for the FFF. The organization would have to fund this new setup while also settling departures from the Deschamps era, even though no meetings with human resources have reportedly taken place yet. The sporting transition could therefore turn into a real financial headache.