FFF President Diallo renews push for tribute to ex-coach Deschamps after Zidane appointment

Published Jul 28, 10:22 AM UTC

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On July 28, 2026, during the official presentation of Zinédine Zidane as the new head coach of the French national football team, French Football Federation (FFF) President Philippe Diallo reiterated his intention to organize a tribute to former coach Didier Deschamps. Diallo revealed that an initial attempt to honor Deschamps shortly after the 2026 World Cup, where France finished fourth, fell through. He stated he would reach out to Deschamps again to arrange a suitable time for the tribute. Zidane, who took over after Deschamps' 14-year tenure, also publicly acknowledged his predecessor's contributions, having won the 1998 World Cup alongside him as a player. The article highlights the transition between two iconic figures in French football.

Source report

Speaking to the media at the official presentation of Zinédine Zidane as the new head coach of the France national team, FFF President Philippe Diallo reiterated his commitment to organizing a tribute for outgoing manager Didier Deschamps. After an initial attempt fell through, Diallo confirmed the intention remains.

A Chapter Yet to Close

Before fully turning the page and embarking on a new era under Zinédine Zidane, Diallo wants to properly honor the previous—and illustrious—chapter. At Tuesday's press conference introducing Zidane as the new coach of Les Bleus, Diallo repeated his desire to pay homage to Deschamps.

Following the end of Deschamps' 14-year tenure—which concluded with a fourth-place finish at the 2026 World Cup—the FFF made an initial effort to organize a tribute.

"I had proposed to Didier to come here to the Federation right after the World Cup, but it couldn't happen," Diallo said on Tuesday.

Diallo to Reach Out Again

"My wish is to pay tribute to him for what he brought to French football at the head of the France team," Diallo continued. "I will reach out to him to see under what conditions and when he is ready for this tribute."

Zidane Salutes His Predecessor

Taking on his new role, Zidane also made a point of acknowledging his predecessor, with whom he won the 1998 World Cup.

"I salute DD for all his work. It's an opportunity for me to say bravo to you. Something new is going to open up, but always to see the same thing, which is to win," said the new head coach of Les Bleus.

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Source

Home Football - actualitésWestern

Original headline: Equipe de France: après une première tentative "qui n'a pas pu se faire", Diallo veut organiser un hommage à Deschamps

Original language: FR

Part of this Story

Zinedine Zidane to Succeed Didier Deschamps as France National Team Coach

See the full Story: all sources and camp coverage

People and interests

Didier Deschamps