Zinedine Zidane has reportedly held discussions with a key French international player before finalizing his appointment as the new head coach of the French national team, according to sources close to the matter. The conversation, which took place in early June 2026, is said to have focused on the player's role and the team's tactical direction under Zidane's leadership.
While the identity of the player has not been officially confirmed, speculation points to a senior figure in the squad, possibly Kylian Mbappé or Antoine Griezmann, both of whom have strong relationships with Zidane. The French Football Federation (FFF) has not commented on the report, but insiders suggest the meeting was a routine part of Zidane's preparation for the role.
Zidane, who previously managed Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles, is expected to bring a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to the French setup. His appointment comes after Didier Deschamps stepped down following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where France reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Portugal.
The FFF is expected to officially announce Zidane's contract in the coming days, with the former midfielder set to lead Les Bleus into the UEFA Euro 2028 qualifying campaign. Fans and pundits alike are eager to see how Zidane's tactical approach will shape the team's future.