Ronaldo Nazário confirms what Real Madrid fans knew about Zidane coaching France
Ronaldo Nazário has confirmed what Real Madrid fans always suspected about Zinedine Zidane's future as France coach. The Brazilian legend spoke out about his former teammate's coaching career, backing the idea that Zidane was always destined to lead Les Bleus.
Ronaldo Nazário said he always knew Zidane would eventually coach France. The two played together at Real Madrid from 2002 to 2006, forming part of the Galácticos era. Ronaldo noted that Zidane's football intelligence made the move natural.
"It was obvious to anyone who played with him," Ronaldo said. He added that Zidane's calm demeanor and tactical mind were perfect for the national team job. The comments came in a recent interview, though the exact date wasn't specified in the source.
Real Madrid supporters have long debated Zidane's next step after his second stint at the club ended in 2021. Many believed he would return to coaching France, a role he has not yet taken. Ronaldo Nazário's confirmation adds weight to that belief.
Zidane won three consecutive Champions League titles as Real Madrid coach from 2016 to 2018. He also led them to two La Liga titles. His success at club level made him a natural candidate for the France job, but he has remained out of work since leaving Madrid.
Ronaldo Nazário's perspective carries weight because he saw Zidane up close. The Brazilian striker scored 104 goals in 177 games for Real Madrid. He knows what made Zidane special as a player and what could make him succeed as a coach.
"Zizou always had a plan," Ronaldo said. "He saw things on the pitch before anyone else." That vision, Ronaldo argued, translates directly to coaching. It's the same quality that made Zidane a Ballon d'Or winner in 1998.
France's current coach Didier Deschamps has led the team since 2012. His contract runs through the 2026 World Cup. But speculation about Zidane replacing him has never faded. Ronaldo Nazário's comments keep that conversation alive.
Zidane has turned down other offers, including from Manchester United and the Brazilian national team. He seems to be waiting for the France job specifically. Ronaldo Nazário's words suggest that patience is the right move.
For now, Zidane remains a free agent. But Ronaldo Nazário's confirmation gives fans a clear signal: the French legend is waiting for his country's call. Real Madrid supporters already knew that. Now the rest of the football world does too.