Kylian Mbappé has expressed his admiration for Zinedine Zidane and shared his happiness at the prospect of Zidane becoming the next manager of the France national team. However, Mbappé emphasized that the decision is not his to make, as current manager Didier Deschamps is still in charge and will remain until the end of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In an interview with TF1, Mbappé said: “It isn’t me who decides (who succeeds Deschamps). I am trying not to talk about it too much. It isn’t my job and there is already a manager there. You have to have respect for the people that are already in place.”
Despite his respect for Deschamps, Mbappé made it clear that if Zidane were to take over, he would be thrilled, stating, “If Zidane arrives, it would be a great pleasure. I would be extremely happy but it isn’t my decision.”
Zidane, a former Real Madrid manager and a French football legend, has long been linked to the national team coaching role. With Deschamps confirming that he will step down after the 2026 World Cup, the possibility of Zidane taking charge has garnered significant attention, especially among fans and players alike.
Mbappé, who recently returned to the France squad for their upcoming Nations League quarter-finals against Croatia, also mentioned that his admiration for Zidane is well known. He reinforced the importance of respecting the current coaching staff, including Deschamps, who led France to victory in the 2018 World Cup and to the final of Euro 2016.