According to French media reports, the news that Zinedine Zidane is about to become the head coach of the French national team has sparked heated discussions among fans. The legendary star is regarded as an absolute idol of French football.
As a consolation prize for the 2026 World Cup, the French national team is about to undergo a generational change, and Zidane is expected to become the new head coach. This appointment has many fans eagerly anticipating it. "There can't be a better choice after Deschamps," Steve, in his forties, sighed while watching his son train. "He should have been coaching a long time ago."
The French people's expectations of Zidane stem from his ability to conquer generations with his feet. In the 1998 World Cup final, the French number 10 scored twice against Brazil, winning the Golden Ball award that same year. "He's a master," Steve said with reverence, "a top figure in football," his friend Marcelo added. But Zidane's legend isn't just built on a stellar accolades list. His headbutt on Italian defender Materazzi in the 2006 World Cup final, resulting in a red card, remains an indelible moment in collective memory, further cementing his mythical status.
“I’m telling you, he’ll be like Michael Jackson,” Steve said excitedly. “Even today, so long after Michael Jackson’s death, people are still listening to his songs. To me, Zidane is the greatest legend, greater than Platini. He’s on another level. Anyone who doesn’t like him is just being argumentative.” Marcelo agreed: “Zidane is a player loved by all of France.”
This unconditional love for Zidane isn't limited to nostalgic viewers who witnessed his peak years. His legacy has been passed down to a new generation, so much so that young people like Calvin, who have barely watched him play, also idolize him. "He's an idol for all of France. Nobody speaks ill of Zidane," said 24-year-old Calvin. Mohamed echoed, "He's unique in the hearts of generations. Our parents told us, our grandparents told us. We grew up listening to stories about Zidane. We also saw his achievements through videos. That's how our adoration for Zidane has been passed down."
This admiration is even more pronounced among teenagers who prefer rising stars like Mbappe and Yamal. "Hearing the older generation talk about him is really touching. They talk about him like they talk about Messi back in the day," said Dorian, whose knowledge of Zidane is limited to his time as Real Madrid manager (2016-2018 and 2019-2021). Calvin concluded his departure for training by saying, "Just thinking about Zidane makes us smile." Hopefully, the French team's future performance will continue this tradition.
