The former star player has reportedly reached a verbal agreement with the Fédération Française de Football (FFF) to succeed Didier Deschamps.

The move, first reported earlier this week, will see Zizou take the reins immediately following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

This ends a historic 14-year tenure that included a World Cup title in 2018, a Nations League trophy in 2021, and two other major finals – Euro 2016 and World Cup 2022.

Deschamps has finally confirmed he will step down after the World Cup where France are one of the favourites for the title.

The 57-year-old Deschamps told TF1 earlier this year that 2026 would be his final chapter, stating, “It has to end at some point… 2026 is good.”

FFF President Philippe Diallo practically confirmed the transition in an interview with Le Figaro on Sunday.

When asked about Deschamps’ replacement, Diallo admitted, “Yes, I know his name.”

He then hinted heavily at Zidane by inviting reporters to “ask him after the World Cup”.

Zidane has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for a second time in May 2021.

To secure this specific role, the 53-year-old reportedly turned down staggering offers, including:

€150M three-year deal from the Saudi Pro League.

Managerial offers from PSG and Manchester United.

The only remaining hurdle before a formal contract signing is the composition of Zidane’s technical team.

Zidane is reportedly pushing for a larger backroom staff than the one currently employed by Deschamps.

Long-time assistant David Bettoni — who was by Zidane’s side for three consecutive Champions League titles at Madrid — is expected to lead the new-look coaching department.

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In a bold move on Thursday, Broos reduced his squad to 23 players for the upcoming friendlies against Panama and the biggest shock is the exclusion of goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.

Despite being a regular in recent camps, Chaine has been dropped without hesitation and replaced by Sekhukhune United goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, who joins Ronwen Williams and Ricardo Goss.

BROOS SENDS A MESSAGE

The Belgian coach made it clear that form and game time matter more than reputation.

Sipho Mbule misses out after struggling for consistent minutes while Siyabonga Ngezana is sidelined due to injury concerns.

This is a ruthless selection and a clear warning to every player hoping to make the World Cup squad.

BIG NAMES RETURN

While some players fall, others rise.

Themba Zwane headlines a powerful return alongside Jayden Adams, Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Thapelo Maseko.

Broos is building a squad that blends experience with explosive attacking options.

NEW FACES AND INTERNATIONAL FIREPOWER

The coach has also injected fresh talent into the team.

Ime Okon from Hannover 96 strengthens the defence while Mbekezeli Mbokazi arrives from Chicago Fire in the United States.

Rising stars Mohau Nkota and Thabang Matuludi have done enough to retain their places.

NO CHIEFS PLAYERS IN FINAL SQUAD

In a major talking point, Kaizer Chiefs have no players in the final 23, confirming a clear shift in power toward Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and overseas based players.

WORLD CUP PRESSURE BUILDS

These matches are more than preparation games. They are final auditions before South Africa faces Mexico in the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener.

Broos said the team is searching for the final pieces needed to compete on the global stage.

For those left out, time is running out. The opportunity to secure a place in the World Cup squad is quickly closing.

MATCH DETAILS

Friday 27 March

Bafana Bafana vs Panama

Moses Mabhida Stadium Durban at 7pm

Tuesday 31 March

Bafana Bafana vs Panama

DHL Stadium Cape Town at 7.30pm

FINAL 23 MAN SQUAD

Goalkeepers

Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Renaldo Leaner

Defenders

Khuliso Mudau, Thabang Matuludi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Ime Okon, Samukele Kabini, Mbekezeli Mbokazi

Midfielders

Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole

Forwards

Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Lyle Foster, Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Relebohile Mofokeng, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko

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Bafana Bafana, already leading the group, tightened their grip at the top with an early strike from Mohau Nkota in the 15th minute. After the break, Lyle Foster doubled the advantage in the 63rd minute before Oswin Appollis put the result beyond doubt just four minutes later.

The victory lifts South Africa to 16 points from seven games, five clear of second-placed Benin Republic on 11 points. Rwanda follow in third with eight points, while Nigeria sits fourth on seven points ahead of their crucial clash with Rwanda on Saturday evening.

With only a handful of qualifiers left, the Super Eagles must deliver a strong response to keep their World Cup dream alive.

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