Zidane’s Return to France: What It Means for Rayan Cherki and the Future of Les Bleus
Didier Deschamps’ impending departure as manager of the French national team after the upcoming World Cup has sparked considerable debate. Although many anticipate a fresh approach with Zinedine Zidane taking the helm, questions are emerging about how this transition will impact key players, particularly young talents like Rayan Cherki.
A Change in Tactical Approach?
Deschamps, who has led the team for 14 years, is expected to hand over the reins to Zidane. Though, RMC consultant Walid Acherchour suggests that a change in manager doesn’t necessarily equate to a change in philosophy. Acherchour believes Zidane may not replicate Deschamps’ recent tactical preference for deploying four attackers.
“I’m not sure that Zidane will line up four attackers like Deschamps has been doing for the last year or two,” Acherchour stated on RMC. “Cherki is assured of being lined up as a number 10, but I’m waiting to see.”
Cherki’s Role Under Zidane: A Potential Shift
The concern centers around Zidane’s historical preference for a more controlled midfield. Acherchour draws parallels to Zidane’s time at Real Madrid, where players like James Rodriguez didn’t fit seamlessly into his system, favoring instead the stability of players like Modric and Kroos. He suggests Zidane prioritizes winning over aesthetically pleasing football.
“For him, it’s still a winning machine, and it won’t be a beautiful game machine,” Acherchour explained. “I think you’re wrong about what Zidane thinks the French team should be. For him, it’s still a winning machine, and it won’t be a beautiful game machine.”
Deschamps’ Late Tactical Evolution
Interestingly, Acherchour acknowledges a recent shift in Deschamps’ tactics, specifically the implementation of a 4-2-3-1 formation with four attacking players. This evolution, however, may not be continued under Zidane.
“I’ve criticized Deschamps a lot on the game, he’s a coach who doesn’t interest me in the football proposed. But last year, or even the last two years, with the 4-2-3-1, the four attackers… I’m not sure Zidane will do the same thing,” Acherchour added.
Will Zidane’s France Be Different?
Acherchour even posits that the final months of Deschamps’ tenure might prove more exciting from a footballing perspective than the initial stages of Zidane’s reign. He anticipates a period of adjustment and potential disillusionment as Zidane implements his preferred style.
“The story of Cherki, either as a number 10 or with the four forwards with Zidane, I’m waiting to see. I think the end of Deschamps will perhaps be more interesting from a footballing point of view than the beginning of Zidane. Maybe I’m saying something crazy, but I see it that way,” Acherchour concluded. “We will be hyped, but I think in six months we will be here saying the same thing.”
FAQ
Will Zinedine Zidane definitely take over as France manager?
While widely expected, it hasn’t been officially confirmed. Didier Deschamps is expected to step down after the World Cup, making Zidane the likely successor.
What is Rayan Cherki’s current role in the French national team?
Cherki was first called up to the national team in June 2025 and is expected to participate in the upcoming World Cup.
What are the main concerns about Cherki’s future under Zidane?
The concern is that Zidane’s tactical preferences may not prioritize the attacking style that has allowed Cherki to flourish recently under Deschamps.
