Zidane set to take over France as FFF targets July 21 signature deadline

The long-awaited era of Zinedine Zidane at the helm of the French national team is finally reaching its crescendo. Reliable sources within the French Football Federation (FFF) have confirmed that Zidane’s appointment as the new head coach of Les Bleus is expected to be formally announced by next Thursday or Friday, with the FFF insisting the contract be finalized before the close of business on July 21.

While the contract has already been drafted and approved by the FFF board, it is currently awaiting the signature of the legendary 1998 World Cup winner. The urgency from the federation stems from a desire to allow Zidane a full preparatory window ahead of the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures and the next phase of World Cup qualifiers.

The Financial Package
The deal represents a significant investment by French football’s governing body. According to insiders, Zidane will command a guaranteed monthly salary of €300,000. However, the deal is heavily laden with performance-related incentives. Should Zidane secure major tournament victories and maintain high qualification standards, his monthly compensation could skyrocket to €450,000. This structure mirrors the “pay-for-performance” model often used in elite club football, ensuring the FFF gets value for their massive financial commitment.

A Massive Backroom Team
Sources indicate that Zidane is not coming alone. The incoming coaching staff is expected to consist of more than 25 people—a remarkably large entourage for an international setup. This expansive team will likely include his trusted tactical assistants from Real Madrid, specialized performance analysts, a dedicated dietician, and multiple physiotherapists. The FFF is reportedly accommodating this massive staff to ensure Zidane has total control over every aspect of the squad’s conditioning, tactics, and recovery.

The End of an Era and a New Dawn
Zidane’s appointment marks the end of Didier Deschamps’ extraordinary 14-year reign. While Deschamps delivered a World Cup and a Nations League, the federation has chosen to pivot toward a coach known for an aggressive, attacking football philosophy—a stylistic change that many fans and pundits have clamored for.

“This is a dream scenario for French football. For years, Zizou has been the most sought-after coach in the world, and he has always expressed a desire to coach the national team,” a high-ranking FFF official told our reporters, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We are confident that his leadership, combined with the immense talent in the current squad, will propel France to further glory.”

With a generation of stars like Kylian Mbappé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Eduardo Camavinga entering their primes, the stage is set for Zidane’s triumphant return to the spotlight. All eyes will now be on Thursday and Friday as the paperwork is put to bed, officially closing one golden chapter of French football and ushering in a potentially even more dazzling one.