Jordan Veretout welcomes Zidane as France coach

France’s transition from Didier Deschamps to Zinédine Zidane has received a strong endorsement from Jordan Veretout, who described the new appointment as an exceptional development for the national team. The Al-Arabi midfielder also paid tribute to Deschamps after his 14-year spell in charge of Les Bleus.

Veretout, 33, said Deschamps had taken France to the top during a period that included a World Cup triumph, another final and a semi-final appearance at the 2026 tournament. Deschamps left after France’s defeat by Spain in that semi-final. Veretout made all six of his international appearances under the former coach, who also won the World Cup as a player.

The midfielder said Zidane’s confirmation by the French Football Federation was excellent news and expressed hope that the former France playmaker can match or surpass Deschamps’ achievements by adding more trophies. He also noted that the two coaches represent different football philosophies, leaving Zidane to establish his own approach with the national team.

Veretout moved to the Qatar Stars League last year after featuring for France at the 2022 World Cup and has since become more distant from international selection. He said he would welcome the chance to see Deschamps again in Qatar, while wishing the former coach success in the next stage of his career. Deschamps has indicated that he does not intend to retire from coaching.