The future of the French team is about to experience a major turning point. Didier Deschamps will leave his post after the 2026 World Cup, paving the way for a historic handover. For months, one name has been coming back insistently: Zinedine Zidane. The absolute favorite, the natural heir, the man that many already imagine at Clairefontaine. However, despite the general enthusiasm, a small grain of sand still prevents the conclusion of this issue which seemed settled.
A real problem but not insurmountable
According to The Parisianthe only blocking point still concerns… the equipment manufacturers. Zidane is linked to Adidas for life, while the French team is committed to Nike until 2034 for a contract estimated at 100 million euros per year. A situation which places the two brands in a delicate area: how to reconcile the image of an Adidas coach with Nike’s strongest showcase in French football? An especially commercial headache, more symbolic than sporting, but sufficient to delay the finalization of the agreement.
In fact, no one imagines this point derailing Zidane’s arrival. This type of conflict already exists in modern football, and the arrangements are part of the decor: limited visibility, specific clauses, neutral zones, or even strict dissociation of communications. Both camps know that a compromise will have to be found to avoid any direct confrontation. The FFF, Adidas and Nike have an interest in getting along: Zidane is a global showcase, and his presence would be an asset for everyone… even if everyone will have to give up a little ground.
Zidane–Bleus: a contractual detail that keeps the suspense going
Zidane expected like a messiah
If Zidane’s arrival is confirmed, it will be accompanied by a level of expectation rarely seen in France. The three-time Champions League winner has not coached for several years, but continues to enjoy incomparable prestige. He knows that succeeding Deschamps, especially if the Blues achieve a major 2026 World Cup, will constitute a titanic challenge. But Zidane’s ability to handle big locker rooms and pressure moments only reinforces the idea that he is the man for the job.
Beyond the simple commercial obstacle, everything converges towards a logical outcome: Zidane will be the post-Deschamps. The discussions will have to harmonize the interests of the brands, but the main thing is elsewhere: the French team is preparing to enter a new era. If nothing has yet been signed, everything indicates that it is only a question of timetable. Barring any drama, Zidane should become the next coach of the Blues – an appointment which will have a considerable impact on all of French football.
