Tag: Didier Deschamps

Zidane Set to Take Over France After 2026 World Cup

Zinedine Zidane
April 2026

Zinedine Zidane is reported to have agreed to become France head coach after the 2026 World Cup, ending a long wait for the role he has been linked with for years. Didier Deschamps has already confirmed that the tournament will be his final one in charge. Report based on ESPN, saying he had reached a verbal agreement with the French federation rather than confirming an official appointment from the federation itself. That means the direction looks clear, but the final move should still be treated as reported, not formally announced.

Saliba Pulls Out of France Squad as Lacroix Earns First Senior Call-Up

William Saliba
March 2026

William Saliba has withdrawn from the France squad because of recurring pain in his left ankle, forcing him out of the upcoming friendlies in the United States. Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix has been called up as his replacement for a first senior international selection. Saliba played the full 90 minutes in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final defeat before the French federation decided the issue required treatment and at least 10 days of rest. Lacroix’s call-up rewards a strong club season and gives France a fresh defensive option before the World Cup.

Zidane Reportedly in Line to Succeed Deschamps as France Plan Post-World Cup Transition

Zinedine Zidane
March 2026

Zinedine Zidane is being widely reported as the leading choice to take over France after the 2026 World Cup, though there is still no official federation confirmation of a signed appointment. Didier Deschamps is set to leave after the tournament, making the succession plan a major national talking point. Reports say Zidane has a verbal agreement in place, while federation president Philippe Diallo has indicated that the next coach is effectively decided. Until an official announcement is made, the situation remains advanced but not formally completed.

Didier Deschamps Defends Kylian Mbappe’s Work Rate Criticism

Didier Deschamps
January 2026

Deschamps rejected criticism focused on Mbappe’s running metrics, saying he will not cover “11 kilometres per match” but can still be a true captain and decisive match-winner. He framed it as a tactical trade-off: you do not demand high-volume defensive running that drains the explosiveness Mbappe needs in the final third.

Manchester United Track Mateta as Palace Contract Talks Stall

Jean-Philippe Mateta
January 2026

Manchester United are monitoring Jean-Philippe Mateta if he becomes available, with Crystal Palace talks over a new deal reported to have stalled. United are not planning a January striker buy but could move if conditions change. Palace previously rejected bids up to £50m and Mateta’s stance is shaped by ambitions to play Champions League football. Palace’s situation is also tied to uncertainty around Oliver Glasner’s future, while Brennan Johnson’s arrival is set to boost their attack.

Deschamps Relaxes Rules to Connect With Players

Didier Deschamps (France)
September 2025

Didier Deschamps admitted lifting his locker-room phone ban and shortening team talks, saying old methods lost effect after criticism from Euro 2024 and Nations League disappointments. The France manager conceded modern players need more freedom and personal connection. By aligning with club norms and cutting team talks from 45 to 10 minutes, Deschamps hopes to rebuild trust and adapt his authority to evolving dressing-room dynamics.

Ekitike Left Out of France Squad Despite Liverpool Form

Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool, France)
August 2025

Hugo Ekitike has been omitted from Didier Deschamps’ latest France squad despite scoring three goals in three games since joining Liverpool. His wait for a senior international debut continues despite making an electric start to life at Anfield. Deschamps left out Ekitike for September qualifiers, preferring other options despite his sharp form. While the 23-year-old continues to impress in England, competition for attacking spots in the France squad remains fierce ahead of World Cup qualification.

Ekitike Tipped for First France Call-Up After Liverpool Start

Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool)
August 2025

Hugo Ekitike is being considered for a first France call-up after scoring on his Liverpool debut against Crystal Palace and again versus Bournemouth. Deschamps could select him for September’s qualifiers, potentially at the expense of Randal Kolo Muani, whose PSG future remains uncertain. Ekitike’s sharp impact since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt has impressed both Liverpool staff and Deschamps’ camp. With Kolo Muani unsettled amid Juventus interest, the French coach may reward Ekitike’s form by handing him an international debut in crucial World Cup qualifiers.

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