Thierry Henry backed to become future France boss after Zidane as Arsenal legend tipped for Les Bleus role

Thierry Henry could one day become the manager of the France national team, with former Arsenal team-mate Jeremie Aliadiere insisting the legendary striker would “love” the opportunity to follow Didier Deschamps and Zinedine Zidane into the Les Bleus dugout.

The Arsenal icon has already sampled international management and remains one of the most respected figures in French football.

Henry’s growing coaching experience

Henry took charge of France’s Olympic team during the Paris 2024 Games, guiding the hosts all the way to the final before suffering extra-time heartbreak against Spain.

The former World Cup winner has also managed Monaco, coached in MLS with CF Montreal, and served as Roberto Martinez’s assistant with Belgium.

Although the 48-year-old currently operates as a television pundit, his coaching ambitions have never completely disappeared, and a future return to management remains a realistic possibility.

Could Henry follow Zidane?

France are preparing for a new era under Zinedine Zidane following Didier Deschamps’ departure after 14 years in charge.

Deschamps leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that includes the 2018 World Cup and the UEFA Nations League title, while Zidane now takes over one of the most talented national squads in world football.

Looking further ahead, Aliadiere believes Henry could eventually continue the tradition established by France’s 1998 World Cup-winning generation.

Speaking to GOAL in association with ToonieBet, the former Arsenal striker said:

“Why not? I’m sure Thierry will be delighted to get the job.

“We’ve seen how patriotic he is and how much he loves France. We saw him during the Olympic Games in 2024 as well. He’s had a great tournament there.

“I’m sure that’ll be in the back of his mind and he will love to get the opportunity at some point.”

Zidane faces enormous expectations

While backing Henry for the future, Aliadiere stressed that the immediate focus remains on Zidane and the pressure that comes with succeeding Deschamps.

“But I think Zidane in France is something different and now we’ve touched the gods,” Aliadiere continued.

“Zidane will always be Zidane. So I wish and I really hope that he succeeds and everything goes well.

“Because as much as Deschamps didn’t win this World Cup, he’s still all the time going to semi-finals, to finals, won in 2018.”

Aliadiere believes Zidane’s reputation means merely competing will not be enough.

“The next step now really for Zidane, he has to win something. He can’t just come and then do a semi-final or a quarter-final.

“And we know how hard it is to win it. Only one team can.”

France remain loaded with elite talent

One reason for optimism surrounding Zidane’s appointment is the incredible depth of talent available to him.

With stars such as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele already established, France also boast a new generation of players ready to step into leading roles.

Aliadiere believes the foundations are already in place for continued success.

“I think Zidane’s going to come in and he hasn’t got a lot to do really. Everything’s already set for him to succeed.

“So yeah, I think you’re right. I think the force, the age, the players that we’re missing as well that will be back in the team.”

The next generation already emerging

Aliadiere highlighted several young stars who could help France remain contenders at future European Championships and World Cups.

“You think a player like Rayan Cherki who couldn’t get much minutes in there, he’ll be in for two years, four years.

“You think about Hugo Ekitike who was injured before it.

“It’s like the names that you’ve got and the talent you’ve got.

“I think Zidane now has just got to put his little magic on it and then make it work.”

A possible future chapter for Henry

While Zidane’s era is only just beginning, Henry’s name continues to surface whenever discussions turn to the long-term future of French football.

His Olympic success, international pedigree and deep connection to the national team make him an obvious candidate should the position become available in the years ahead.

For now, Henry remains on the outside looking in, but according to those who know him best, managing France is a challenge he would welcome with open arms.

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