Kylian Mbappé reveals he's making an effort to steer clear of Zinedine Zidane amid rumors about the France and Real Madrid legend's next coaching position.
Kylian Mbappé has confessed that he is “trying” to steer clear of Zinedine Zidane amid speculation that the Real Madrid icon could be a contender for the France managerial role.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Didier Deschamps, who has led the French national team since 2012, has confirmed that he will step down after the 2026 World Cup in North America. While his successor has yet to be named, speculation is growing that Zinedine Zidane could take over. Zidane has been without a coaching role since his second departure from Real Madrid in 2021.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Amid speculation about Zidane potentially managing the French national team, Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe has admitted that he is deliberately keeping his distance from the 52-year-old, who also lives in Madrid. The current France captain also declined to comment on Deschamps’ departure after 14 years or on who might succeed him.
WHAT KYLIAN MBAPPE SAID
In an interview with Le Parisien, Mbappe responded to questions about Zidane by saying, “[I’m] trying not to bump into him too much.” The former PSG star also stated that he doesn’t want to fuel “speculation” regarding the upcoming managerial vacancy.
When pressed further, he added: “I know you want me to talk about it, but I won’t because it’s not my role. The federation president will make that decision. Everyone is discussing Zidane, and I won’t pretend I’m unaware of what’s happening, but it’s not for me to comment on.”
