Didier Deschamps

Paris Saint-Germain successfully negotiated the transfer of French international midfielder Maghnes Akliouche from AS Monaco for €50 million, after Monaco rejected earlier offers including a €45 million bid. The 24-year-old, under contract until 2028, had expressed preference for PSG, which also fended off interest from Liverpool. The deal, finalized in late July 2026, surpasses the previous Ligue 1 transfer record and strengthens PSG's squad for the upcoming season.

13 reports · 6 sources · Updated Aug 7, 07:53 AM UTC

In a World Cup group stage match, France defeated Senegal 3-1. Kylian Mbappé broke a deadlock with a half-turn shot assisted by Michael Olise, who recorded his first national team assist for Mbappé and reached 28 assists this season across club and country, leading Europe's top five leagues. The victory also marked France's first time scoring at least two goals in eight consecutive World Cup matches.

57 reports · 9 sources · Updated Jul 30, 05:48 AM UTC

The French Football Federation (FFF) is finalizing Zinedine Zidane’s appointment as head coach of Les Bleus, succeeding Didier Deschamps after his final match—a World Cup third-place playoff against England on July 18, 2026. Zidane’s contract, reportedly worth €300,000–€450,000 monthly, begins September 1. He plans a major staff overhaul, including assistants from Real Madrid and Fabien Barthez as goalkeeping coach. The official announcement is expected within a week, with the first matches in Nations League games against Turkey, Belgium, and Italy.

52 reports · 15 sources · Updated Jul 29, 09:11 AM UTC

Paraguay defender José Canale, who came on as a substitute in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match against France, told ESPN that the French team, like Germany, did not like engaging in physical duels. The match, played on July 4 in Philadelphia, saw France win 1-0 via a penalty by captain Kylian Mbappé. Canale, a Lanus defender, stated that South American football is 'more difficult' than European football, adding that pushing French or German players slightly was enough to disrupt their game. The article also notes Paraguay's aggressive tactics, including fouls and provocations, which frustrated the French team. The victory advanced France to the quarterfinals.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 12:55 PM UTC

In a press conference before France's 2026 World Cup match against Iraq, Kylian Mbappé denied jealousy over Lionel Messi's hat-trick against Algeria, calling him "the best" alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. Mbappé also discussed his 100th cap, World Cup scoring records, and Real Madrid form. He scored twice in a 3-0 win over Iraq, emphasizing team goals over personal milestones. The event highlights Mbappé's respect for Messi and his leadership as France aims for the title.

37 reports · 9 sources · Updated Jul 27, 07:33 AM UTC

According to Transfermarkt statistics reported by Hupu on July 27, among the 48 teams participating in the upcoming World Cup, 18 head coaches have either resigned or been dismissed and will no longer lead their respective national teams. The list of affected coaches includes high-profile figures such as France's Didier Deschamps, Portugal's Roberto Martinez, Belgium's Garcia, Netherlands' Koeman, Germany's Julian Nagelsmann, Croatia's Zlatko Dalić, Uruguay's Marcelo Bielsa, and South Korea's Hong Myung-bo. This significant turnover suggests a period of transition for many top football nations ahead of the tournament.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 03:07 AM UTC

The article reports that Zinedine Zidane, the 1998 World Cup champion and former Real Madrid manager, is set to be officially introduced as the new manager of the French national team on July 28, 2026, ending a five-year hiatus from coaching since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. During this period, Zidane remained out of the media spotlight but stayed active through family life, charity matches, galas, and events with the 1998 World Cup champions. He maintained his physical condition and showcased his football skills at events like Bordeaux's Chaban-Delmas stadium anniversary. His children, all footballers, kept him connected to the sport. His last public appearances included attending World Cup matches involving Algeria, Argentina, Brazil, and Morocco. The article notes his enduring popularity, comparing him to French rock star Johnny Hallyday, and mentions his name was linked to several clubs during his absence.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 09:52 AM UTC

FIFA appointed Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton, 35, to officiate the 2026 World Cup semifinal between France and Spain on Tuesday at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Barton gained attention for strictly enforcing a new FIFA rule penalizing players who cover their mouths when speaking to opponents, having sent off Paraguay’s Miguel Almiron earlier in the tournament. He will be assisted by fellow Salvadorans David Moran and Antonio Pupiro, with Swedish officials as reserves. This marks Barton’s first World Cup semifinal assignment.

15 reports · 7 sources · Updated Jul 23, 09:41 AM UTC

Former Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy revealed on his podcast that French midfielder N'Golo Kanté initially wanted to play for Mali, his parents' country of origin, before being persuaded to join France. Vardy recalled that during their time at Leicester, Kanté hesitated, but teammates advised him that France would win the World Cup. Kanté eventually debuted for France in March 2016, went on to win the 2018 World Cup, two Premier League titles, and finished fifth in the 2021 Ballon d'Or. Vardy also shared an anecdote about Kanté's humility, noting he kept his old Mini Cooper even after moving to Chelsea, eventually giving it to his parents.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 11:38 PM UTC

Jamie Vardy, former Leicester City teammate of N'Golo Kanté, revealed on his podcast that the French midfielder initially hesitated to play for France and considered representing Mali, his parents' country of origin. Vardy recounted that Kanté wanted to play for Mali for his father, but France called him first. Vardy and others at Leicester urged Kanté to choose France, predicting they would win. Kanté went on to earn 69 caps, win the 2018 World Cup, and achieve Premier League titles. Vardy also shared an anecdote about Kanté's famous Mini Cooper, noting that despite moving to Chelsea, Kanté kept the car and later sent it to his parents.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 09:01 PM UTC

French national team defender William Saliba has returned to training after a back injury sustained during the Champions League final, but admits he is not fully fit. His return is a relief for coach Didier Deschamps, as France’s defense struggled without him. Saliba is expected to play in the final pre-World Cup friendly against Northern Ireland and the World Cup opener against Senegal, though his persistent pain raises concerns about his performance and France’s defensive stability.

54 reports · 13 sources · Updated Jul 22, 09:50 PM UTC

The article discusses the trend of former World Cup and Champions League-winning players transitioning into national team coaching roles, with varying degrees of success. It highlights that Zinédine Zidane's appointment as France coach is expected to be made official this summer, and Pep Guardiola may take over Italy's national team. Didier Deschamps is noted as one of the few to have won the World Cup both as a player and a coach. Other examples include Diego Maradona, Michel Platini, and Marco van Basten, who all took on national team coaching roles with mixed results. The piece reflects on the often complicated second life of these former champions on the bench.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:00 PM UTC

In an interview with L'Équipe, former Olympique de Marseille coach Élie Baup recounts how he took over the team in the summer of 2012 amid an austerity drive. Despite the departure of key players like Cesar Azpilicueta and Alou Diarra, and a transfer window with almost no new signings, Baup focused on intense physical preparation and leveraging the pride of experienced players such as Steve Mandanda, Mathieu Valbuena, and André-Pierre Gignac. He emphasized humility, team unity, and a strong work ethic, avoiding the narcissism that new signings can bring. The strategy paid off as OM finished second in Ligue 1, driven by a six-match winning streak and a tight-knit locker room that embraced the pressure of playing for the club.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 05:45 PM UTC

The article explores the possibility of France hosting the 2038 FIFA World Cup, as proposed by the association Territoires d'événements sportifs (TES). It notes that if Zinédine Zidane remains national team coach as long as Didier Deschamps (14 years), he would still be in charge for the 2038 tournament. The French Football Federation (FFF) is also considering bids for the 2033 Women's Euro and 2036 Men's Euro. However, the article emphasizes that any 2038 World Cup bid is a distant horizon and may not be feasible. Before proceeding, French officials must learn more about FIFA's bidding rules. The piece quotes FFF president Philippe Diallo and references his meeting with FIFA president Gianni Infantino during the 2023 World Cup semi-final.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 03:01 PM UTC

Zinedine Zidane is widely expected to become the next manager of the French national team, replacing Didier Deschamps who resigned after the 2026 World Cup. However, Zidane may inherit a deeply fractured squad, with Kylian Mbappe at the center of tensions. According to French media, there were heated exchanges between Deschamps and the French Football Federation (FFF) over travel, tickets, and player compensation. Mbappe reportedly led negotiations on World Cup bonuses and pushed for a cryotherapy chamber. After France's fourth-place finish, Mbappe publicly questioned Deschamps' tactics. Deschamps stated he resigned because the environment had become 'completely intolerable' and overly focused on him, not for the benefit of the team. The FFF has yet to confirm Zidane's appointment, but an announcement is expected before the end of July.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 10:45 AM UTC

French radio host Walid Acherchour, speaking on RMC's 'After Foot,' sharply criticized Rayan Cherki's performance and attitude during the World Cup, calling the tournament a 'failure' for the young player. Acherchour noted Cherki's frustration over limited playing time, his visible displeasure on camera, and a lack of impact when given opportunities, such as a start in the third-place match against England. With Didier Deschamps' tenure as France coach ending and Zinedine Zidane expected to take over, Acherchour advised Zidane to investigate Cherki's behavior before giving him a central role. He described Cherki as a 'troublemaker' in the locker room whose casual attitude could be interpreted negatively, especially after losses to Spain and England. Acherchour urged Cherki to mature and for those around him to help correct his conduct.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:00 AM UTC

According to Sport Bild, French attacking midfielder Michael Olise (24) is eager to join Real Madrid this summer after a disappointing World Cup where France finished fourth. His close friend and French captain Kylian Mbappé actively lobbied for his transfer, personally recommending Olise to Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez after France's semi-final loss to Spain. Olise believes his chances of winning the Champions League are greater at Madrid than at Bayern Munich. However, Bayern holds a strong position: Olise has no release clause in his contract until 2029. Bayern is preparing a contract extension with a significant salary increase from €14 million to approximately €25 million annually. Real Madrid has not yet contacted Olise or Bayern, respecting a presidential agreement between the clubs not to poach players without prior notification. Olise is pushing for talks with Bayern's management to understand the club's future direction. Meanwhile, Bayern is also scheduled to negotiate a contract extension with Harry Kane.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:36 PM UTC

The French national team's 2026 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment with a semi-final loss to Spain on July 14. The article reveals internal tensions and criticisms of coach Didier Deschamps' decisions, particularly starting Aurélien Tchouameni despite his lack of fitness and missing previous matches. Players preferred Manu Koné's more forward-driving midfield style alongside Adrien Rabiot. Defender William Saliba struggled with a back injury that alarmed teammates, sometimes unable to walk after matches. Training intensity varied widely, with some players preserving themselves, others trying to prove themselves, and some becoming demotivated. Kylian Mbappé solidified his captaincy by handling bonus negotiations, family logistics, and leave permissions, supported by Ousmane Dembélé. Désiré Doué maintained strict personal discipline despite an uncertain role. The piece highlights both individual and collective errors that contributed to France's failure as tournament favorites.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 09:34 PM UTC

On RMC's 'l’After Foot', analyst Walid Acherchour voiced serious concerns about French international Rayan Cherki following a disappointing 2026 World Cup. Cherki, who plays for Manchester City, logged only 124 minutes across the tournament, starting just once against England. His limited playing time led to visible frustration, including a reported argument with coach Didier Deschamps during the third-place match and a nonchalant demeanor on the bench. Acherchour described the World Cup as a 'failure' for Cherki sportingly, noting that his behavior and lack of impact on the pitch raise 'red flags' for incoming coach Zinédine Zidane, who is expected to be appointed soon. The analyst warned that Cherki's negative frustration throughout the tournament could jeopardize his future with the French national team under new leadership.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:37 PM UTC

Zinedine Zidane, the legendary former Real Madrid midfielder and coach, is widely expected to succeed Didier Deschamps as head coach of the French national team. The article reports that French senators Laurent Lafon and Michel Savin have detailed an amendment to a sports reform law that would exempt Zidane from a proposed salary cap of 450,000 euros per year for the position. The Minister of Sports has confirmed that a derogation is possible to pay the future coach. The French Football Federation (FFF) is finalizing adjustments for Zidane's arrival. Multiple linked articles provide context, including Zidane's attendance at the 2026 World Cup final, his comments on players who impressed him, and opinions from former players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Christophe Dugarry, and Emmanuel Petit on what Zidane would bring to the team. The article also notes Zidane's career achievements: born in Marseille in 1972, Ballon d'Or winner in 1998, World Cup winner, and three-time consecutive Champions League winner as Real Madrid coach.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 07:54 PM UTC

The article explores the possibility of France hosting the 2038 FIFA World Cup, as recommended by the association Territoires d'événements sportifs (TES). TES suggests that French Football Federation (FFF) officials and public authorities consider bidding for the 2033 Women's Euro, the 2036 Men's Euro, or especially the 2038 World Cup. However, the article notes that before launching a formal bid, France must first understand the rules set by FIFA for the 2038 tournament, which remain unclear. The piece references FFF president Philippe Diallo and FIFA president Gianni Infantino, and mentions that if Zinédine Zidane serves as long as Didier Deschamps as national team coach, he would still be in charge in 2038. The article is cautious, highlighting that the bid may not necessarily be possible due to unknown FIFA regulations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:55 PM UTC

On June 4, 2026, France faced Ivory Coast in a World Cup preparation friendly at Nantes' Beaujoire stadium. Rayan Cherki scored a stunning solo goal just before halftime, earning a standing ovation. However, France collapsed in the second half, losing 2-1. Cherki's performance sparked debate about his role as a starter or impact substitute for the upcoming World Cup in the United States.

34 reports · 8 sources · Updated Jul 21, 03:48 PM UTC

The article reports on the impending departure of Didier Deschamps as coach of the French national football team after 14 years, and the likely replacement by Zinédine Zidane. It notes that Deschamps' entire staff, including Franck Raviot, Raphaël Raymond, Mohamed Sanhadji, Cyril Moine, and Guy Stéphan, will not be retained except in rare cases. Zidane is expected to bring an expanded and largely renewed team. The article highlights the uncertainty for each staff member depending on their contractual situation, marking the end of an era for the French team's management.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 03:35 PM UTC

On July 21, 2026, French midfielder Manu Koné publicly addressed supporters following France's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In a social media post, Koné expressed deep disappointment over the team's failure to complete their mission, noting that the pain persists days after the loss. He acknowledged the heartbreak of seeing fans' disappointment but expressed eternal gratitude for playing in his first World Cup and representing France. Koné thanked the coach, staff, and behind-the-scenes workers for providing optimal conditions, and lamented not being able to give departing coach Didier Deschamps a proper farewell gift or throw a celebration for fans. The AS Roma player vowed that with pride, faith, and fan support, the team will recover from this setback.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:35 PM UTC

French international midfielder Manu Koné, 25, of AS Roma, reflected on his first World Cup experience a week after France's 0-2 semi-final loss to Spain. In an emotional Instagram post, Koné wrote that seeing the disappointment in fans' eyes 'breaks my heart' but expressed eternal gratitude for representing France. He thanked coach Didier Deschamps and the staff, noting they would have liked to give the departing manager a better farewell. Koné was a standout performer in the tournament, filling in for the injured Aurélien Tchouaméni in key matches against Paraguay and Morocco. His strong performances have attracted interest from clubs including Manchester United, who have intensified negotiations with AS Roma for his transfer. Koné previously won a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics under Thierry Henry.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:34 PM UTC

The article explores the intricate relationship between French football legends Zinedine Zidane and Didier Deschamps, who played together for France and Juventus and are now set to succeed each other as national team coaches. Deschamps has been France coach for 14 years, and Zidane is expected to replace him soon. Despite mutual respect and warm interactions, their bond is marked by unspoken tensions, occasional resentments, and the shadow of Zidane as a potential successor. The piece highlights how their paths have intertwined over decades, from teammates to coaching rivals, with Zidane's looming appointment seen as both a natural progression and a source of underlying friction.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:01 PM UTC

French media RMC interviewed former French internationals about Zinedine Zidane's impending appointment as France national team coach. Jérôme Rothen stated Zidane should retain Kylian Mbappé as captain but must find a new technical leader and relay points different from the Deschamps era. Rothen cautioned that Zidane's Real Madrid success does not guarantee automatic honors with France, and he must adapt his operational mode. Christophe Dugarry advised Zidane not to play defensive football, while Pascal Dupraz expects results no worse than Deschamps but with more attractive play. Dimitri Payet expressed high anticipation for Zidane's return, noting the timing is right 20 years after his 2006 World Cup final red card.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 12:29 PM UTC

Former French international Emmanuel Petit, speaking on RMC's 'Rothen s'enflamme' program, praised Zinedine Zidane ahead of his expected takeover of the French national team. Petit highlighted Zidane's legendary playing career, including his 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 triumphs, and his success as a coach. He argued that Zidane's charisma and prestige command respect from all players, including Kylian Mbappé, and that Zidane can unite a team that has relied too heavily on individual talent. Petit also contrasted Zidane with current coach Didier Deschamps, noting that while Deschamps has succeeded, Zidane could bring consistency and inspiration in crucial matches. The article also recounts a story about Zidane's youth coach overcoming discrimination to secure his call-up to the French youth team.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 12:26 PM UTC

This article from RMC Sport provides a brief biography of Zinedine Zidane, the legendary French footballer and former Real Madrid coach, and aggregates multiple linked stories about the strong speculation that he will become the next coach of the France national team. Zidane, born in Marseille in 1972, won the Ballon d'Or in 1998 and the World Cup with France, and later won three consecutive Champions League titles as Real Madrid coach. The article highlights that the French Football Federation (FFF) is finalizing his arrival, with discussions about a potential salary cap derogation to pay him. Various football figures, including Fabio Cannavaro and Emmanuel Petit, have endorsed Zidane as the ideal successor to Didier Deschamps. The article also notes Zidane's attendance at the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and includes a separate opinion that Kylian Mbappé is already the greatest French player ever, ahead of Zidane and Platini.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 11:34 AM UTC

Following Didier Deschamps' 14-year tenure ending with a 4-6 World Cup third-place loss to England, Zinedine Zidane is set to become the new coach of the French national team. The article gathers perspectives from former French players and those who knew Zidane in Marseille. Emmanuel Petit notes the legacy is manageable since Deschamps didn't win a second World Cup. Former youth teammate Naine recalls Zidane's childhood skills. First coach Alain Lepeu reveals he had to argue for Zidane's selection due to his Algerian heritage. Dimitri Payet says Zidane will be highly expected given his coaching success, including three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid. The FFF is expected to announce the appointment before end of July 2026.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 11:34 AM UTC