Former France international, Marcel Desailly, has revealed that Zinedine Zidane has his sights firmly set on managing the French national team, even after turning down major offers from top European clubs.
Speaking to Oddspedia, Desailly disclosed that Zidane rejected lucrative proposals from Manchester United and Chelsea, both of which reportedly included “blank cheques”, because his passion lies elsewhere.
According to Desailly, Zidane’s ambition isn’t driven by financial gain but by a desire to lead his country.
“Will Zinedine Zidane be tempted by Saudi Arabia? Well he had a blank cheque on the table from Chelsea and a blank cheque from Manchester United and turned them down – he isn’t in it for the money. He likes to travel and always keeps an eye on the France national team,” Desailly said. “He’s ready because Didier Deschamps has started the transition. France will be one of the favourites for the World Cup and win or lose it’s not the end of this era for France. There is a squad and a philosophy and Zidane will know how to take that on to rebuild his own team. For another eight years at least France will be at the top level in Europe.”
Deschamps is expected to step down as France head coach after the 2026 World Cup, potentially paving the way for Zidane to take the reins.
The former Real Madrid boss has been out of management since 2021 and is believed to have also rejected a €100 million, one-year offer from the Saudi Pro League, reinforcing his commitment to eventually coaching Les Bleus.
Until the post becomes available, it’s unlikely Zidane will return to club management, as he continues to hold out for his dream role with the French national team.
