Zidane, Klopp, Forlán, Guardiola… soon a true parade of legends on the national team benches

The upcoming international tournaments are set to be especially thrilling. Beyond the clashes between footballing powerhouses, all eyes will also be on the dugouts, where several global football legends could take the helm of their respective national teams. From Zinédine Zidane to Diego Forlán, including Jürgen Klopp, Pep Guardiola, and Carlo Ancelotti, a new generation of prestigious managers is taking shape.

Portugal has already kicked things off. After Roberto Martínez's departure, the Portuguese Federation handed the reins of the Seleção to Jorge Jesus. The seasoned tactician, who made his mark during a triumphant stint at Flamengo between 2019 and 2020, is now fulfilling his ambition to coach a national side.

In South America, Uruguay has also turned to an iconic figure. Former striker for Manchester United, Villarreal, Atlético de Madrid and Internacional, Diego Forlán steps in provisionally for Marcelo Bielsa after the Celeste’s disappointing World Cup campaign.

Zinédine Zidane, the long-awaited rendezvous with Les Bleus

The most anticipated appointment, however, remains that of Zinédine Zidane. After fifteen years at the helm, Didier Deschamps has stepped down from leading Les Bleus, finally opening the door for the former French playmaker. Without a club since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, Zidane is said to have deliberately turned down several offers to remain available for this challenge he has coveted for years. The 1998 World Cup winner reportedly plans to surround himself with a robust technical staff, made up of experts in various fields, with a significant role for women.

Germany could also bet on a global reference. After Julian Nagelsmann’s departure, Jürgen Klopp has emerged as the frontrunner to take charge of Die Mannschaft. Since leaving Liverpool in 2024, the German coach has been consulting for the Red Bull group, and is reportedly ready to take on his first challenge at the helm of a national team.

The Netherlands and Italy are not lagging behind. The Dutch are expected to turn the page on Ronald Koeman by appointing Arne Slot as their new manager. As for the Squadra Azzurra, the new leadership duo of Paolo Maldini and Leonardo is aiming to restore Italian football's former glory. Pep Guardiola is one of the main options, although Andrea Pirlo also remains a credible candidate.

Conversely, some major nations are opting for stability. Spain continues to trust Luis de la Fuente, while Brazil is sticking with Carlo Ancelotti.

With such a star-studded lineup on the benches, the next international tournaments promise not only high-level showdowns between the world’s best national teams, but also a fascinating tactical duel between some of the greatest legends the game has ever seen.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.