Didier Deschamps to step down as France manager in 2026; Zinedine Zidane a likely replacement | OneFootball

France manager Didier Deschamps has confirmed he will step down from his role after the 2026 World Cup, with Zinedine Zidane reportedly the favourite to take over.

Deschamps joined Les Bleus in 2012 after years of turmoil in the national team setup, steadying the ship and reestablishing France as one of the dominant forces in world football, winning the 2018 World Cup and reaching the final in 2022.

2026 will be Deschamps' final chance to add to that haul as the boss confirmed he will allow his contract to expire and walk away after the tournament.

"I've been here since 2012 and will remain until 2026 and the next World Cup," he told TF1. "But it will end there because it has to. In my mind, it's clear. 2026, it's fine.

"You never want something good to end, but you have to know when to stop. There is a life after this, I don't know which one, but it will be very good still. Fourteen years is a lot. The most important is for France to remain on top like it has for several years."

L'Equipe, who state Deschamps reached his decision several months ago, believe Zidane is the leading candidate to take over in 2026. The former Real Madrid boss is known to be keen to take charge of Les Bleus after years of speculation.

Thierry Henry, who resigned as France Under-21 manager during the summer, is also seen as a possible candidate.