France close a painful chapter. Beaten by England in the third-place playoff (6-4) after their semi-final exit against Spain, Les Bleus finished fourth at the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Their last official match was on July 9: a 2-0 win over Morocco.
What happened at the end of the Deschamps era?
Didier Deschamps leaves his post after twelve years in charge of France. Under his leadership, the team won the 2018 World Cup and reached two European finals, but expectations were sky-high for this 2026 World Cup. The semi-final loss to Spain left a mark, as did the defeat to England in the third-place playoff. France departs with an aging squad and a style of play that drew criticism.
Zinedine Zidane, the new boss
Zinedine Zidane is set to take over as France manager by late September, barring a last-minute twist. The former captain, who managed the team in 2022, returns with the mission to revive a rebuilding collective. His first challenge? Restore confidence in a generation that failed to live up to its favorite status. The young squad, despite its talent, struggles to embody the legacy of France’s past greats.
The Nations League schedule is set
France returns to action with the Nations League. Drawn in Group A1, they face Turkey away on September 25, followed by a trip to Belgium three days later. The first home game comes on October 2 against Italy, as part of an extended international break. Five matches are scheduled through November, with a packed schedule to test the bench depth.
Group A1 looks tough. Turkey, surprise Euro 2024 finalists, and Belgium, always dangerous, will be tough opponents. Italy, the reigning European champions, complete this balanced group. France must prove itself quickly to avoid another rollercoaster run.
A team in full transition
Kylian Mbappé, despite a disappointing World Cup, remains captain and the offensive leader. Around him, veterans like Antoine Griezmann and Raphaël Varane must set the example. But it’s the young generation that intrigues: Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni and William Saliba could finally get their chance.
France won its last five matches before the World Cup, but expectations are now different. With Zidane, the focus will be on tactical discipline and cohesion. The new manager must also manage egos in a squad where every player shines at club level.
The comeback starts strong. After a summer marked by Deschamps’ departure, France must turn the page. Their first test comes on September 25 in Turkey, a match where every detail matters.
