The head of the French Football Federation, Noel Le Gré, rejected rumors that Zinedine Zidane might take over the French national team after the World Cup in Qatar. He made it clear there was no contact and insisted that such a move would be inappropriate at this moment.
Le Gré stressed that he has full confidence in Didier Deschamps and intends to keep him in charge of the national side. In a candid discussion, he stated that the idea of calling Zidane would not align with his plans, and he believes Deschamps should continue to lead Les Bleus on the road ahead.
Earlier reports had painted Zidane as the leading candidate to step into the role of head coach once the national team’s duties at Qatar were concluded. Those rumors linked Zidane’s exit from the Deschamps era with a potential return to the helm, stirring chatter among fans and pundits alike.
Deschamps has steered the national team since 2012, guiding France to victory in the 2018 World Cup held in Russia. His tenure has been marked by steady results, resilient performances, and a deep pool of talent making up the squad across major tournaments. He has become a defining figure during a period of sustained success for French football.
In the latest phase of competition, France defeated Poland 3-1 in the Round of 16, advancing in the knockout stages of the World Cup. With the tournament shifting into the late‑round fixtures, the team prepared for a high-stakes quarterfinal against England, a match that would both test the squad and fulfill the expectations associated with a defending world champion.
In related sports news, Irina Rodnina, the former deputy of the State Duma of the Russian Federation and a three‑time Olympic figure skating champion, offered her perspective on recent statements issued by Thomas Bach, the president of the International Olympic Committee, and the remarks made during the IOC Executive Board meeting on December 7. Rodnina shared her views on how leadership messages from major Olympic bodies are received and interpreted by athletes and national committees alike, underscoring the global reach of those conversations.