Zinédine Zidane in frame for France job as FFF tests sponsor appetite | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, the FFF has sounded out sponsors about a possible Zidane era as France head coach, hoping for a small top-up. The idea is to harness his pulling power if an appointment happens.

Few doubt he could be installed after the World Cup, scheduled for 11 June to 19 July. Didier Deschamps is contracted to the 2026 tournament and has made clear he will not continue beyond it.

Zidane quickly became the preferred option and that has not been denied. Both parties still need to agree, with no contract signed, though talks exist to be ready. Within the FFF, his arrival is viewed as a new chapter that could lift the team’s image.

In recent weeks, director general Jean-François Vilotte has met sponsors to discuss next steps and the conditions for any extra contributions if the team’s image improves. Extra income could help fund a successor on a slightly higher package than Deschamps. He earns about €3m gross a year, excluding bonuses from image rights and major tournament results.

The head coach is barely used commercially. Partners can activate around five players, while the coach stays outside that rotation and typically only attends the annual partners’ dinner.

If Zidane is appointed, expanding his role would not be simple. He has a long association with Adidas, while Nike is the FFF’s generous kit supplier. He also has his own partners, whereas Deschamps is more discreet, though his possible arrival could offer positive marketing prospects.

Source: L'Équipe