Didier Deschamps ended his time as France coach after 14 years in charge. After the defeat against England in the match for third place in the 2026 World Cup, he confirmed that he will leave his position and explained the reasons for his decision.
The coach, world champion in Russia 2018, assured that his departure responds to the atmosphere that surrounded the team. “I decided I had to stop. It wasn’t for me, it was for the good of the French team. There was an unbearable atmosphere with me”he declared in an interview.
Deschamps explained that the decision was the result of long reflection and that he preferred to wait until after the World Cup out of respect for the team. He also noted that the atmosphere improved once his departure was announced.
The coach stated that, from now on, he will avoid commenting on the French team. “The French team is above everything. It does not belong to me. I was at its service for 14 years,” he concluded.
One of the most emotional moments of the farewell was Kylian Mbappé’s message. The French captain dedicated a letter to Didier Deschamps in which he regretted not having been able to give a better closure to his time at the head of the national team.
Mbappé also highlighted the coach’s career and assured that his legacy will be recognized over time. Both shared several years in the French team and built a close relationship.
Regarding his future, Deschamps ruled out retiring from football, although he avoided revealing what his next destination will be. “I will continue to be linked to football”he stated with a relaxed tone during the interview.
The coach leaves France after winning the 2018 World Cup in Russia, finishing runners-up in Qatar 2022 and reaching the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup. According to French media, Zinedine Zidane would be the main candidate to take over.