Zidane on the Verge: French FA Boss Confirms Deschamps' Successor is Locked In

Picture this: you're nursing a pint, scrolling footy news, and bam – the French Football Federation drops a massive hint about Didier Deschamps' replacement. Philippe Diallo, the FFF president, has let slip to Le Figaro that he's nailed down the next gaffer for Les Bleus. After 14 years at the helm, Deschamps is set to wave goodbye post-2026 World Cup. Talk about going out on a high – or at least trying to.

Diallo Spills the Beans (Sort Of)

Diallo's been playing coy for months, insisting no announcement until France's World Cup dreams fizzle out. But in a cheeky interview, he admitted: "Yes, I know who will be France’s next manager." It's like he's got the lottery numbers but won't share 'em yet. The timing? Perfectly timed to avoid rocking the boat as Les Bleus jet off to the US for friendlies.

Next week, Deschamps' lads touch down stateside for a proper test. First up, Thursday 26th March at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough: France versus Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil. Then, it's Colombia three days later at Northwest Stadium in Landover. An early sniff of American pitches before the big one – smart prep, or just a jolly?

As reported by Bastien Cheval at Get French Football News, this successor tease has tongues wagging. And boy, do we love a good rumour mill.

Enter Zinedine Zidane – The People's Choice

If the grapevine's humming right, it's none other than Zinédine Zidane. Le Parisien reckons Zizou's already shaken hands on a verbal deal with the FFF. At 53, the Real Madrid icon – three straight Champions League trophies, remember? – is poised for his first international gig. The very team he graced as a player, etching his name in World Cup lore.

L’Equipe whispers that groundwork's underway for Zidane's backroom staff. Imagine the glamour: Zizou calling shots, maybe roping in some Galacticos mates. Deschamps built a machine; Zidane could turbocharge it. But official word? Not till after the World Cup, to keep focus razor-sharp. Fair play, Diallo – no distractions on the road to glory.

Zidane's been jobless since leaving Madrid, turning down Premier League whispers. France feels like destiny, doesn't it? The lad from Marseille, headbutts and all, back where he belongs.

What's Next for Les Bleus – And a Side Note on Payet

France head into these Stateside clashes brimming with talent. Expect Mbappé fireworks, Griezmann guile, and maybe a Grimaldo screamer. Win big here, and Deschamps exits on a high note. Lose? Well, Zidane's waiting with that magic touch.

Meanwhile, a fond farewell: Dimitri Payet hung up his boots, announcing retirement mid-game between his old clubs OM and Lille. The flair merchant bows out – cheers to the artist!

This saga's got more twists than a Madrid derby (shoutout to Real's recent 3-2 thriller over Atletico). Will Zidane seal the deal? Diallo says yes, the press says Zizou. Grab your beret, lads – French footy's about to get legendary. Stay tuned; we'll be here pint in hand.

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