Didier Deschamps has declared his intention to step down as head coach of the French national soccer team following the upcoming World Cup, marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in his career as he has become the country’s most successful manager over the past ten years.
At 56 years old, Deschamps confirmed that he will conclude his tenure when his contract expires in the summer of 2026. In an interview with TF1, he expressed, “I’ve been here since 2012, I’m scheduled to be here until 2026, the next World Cup, but that’s where it’s going to end because it has to end at some point. I did my time, with the same desire and the same passion to keep the French team at the highest level, but 2026 is all very well.”
Deschamps took over the role in 2012 after Laurent Blanc, following a tumultuous period for French soccer marked by the 2010 World Cup fallout and off-field controversies. Under his leadership, France triumphed at the 2018 World Cup and advanced to the finals in both the 2022 World Cup and the 2016 European Championship. In the recent World Cup held in Qatar, France suffered a dramatic defeat to Argentina in the final.
Deschamps stated, “I’m not here for the records,” emphasizing that his priority is to maintain France’s status at the top of international soccer. To date, he is one of only three individuals to have claimed the World Cup as both a player and a coach, alongside Mario Zagallo of Brazil and Franz Beckenbauer of West Germany. He also holds the record for the most wins as a France coach, totaling 105 victories, surpassing previous records held by Michel Hidalgo and Raymond Domenech.
Recent performances, especially at the European Championship where France was knocked out by Spain in the semifinals, have raised some concerns. Critics pointed to a lackluster style of play throughout Euro 2024, as evidenced by France’s struggle to score, with only one goal from open play during the entire tournament. Nonetheless, Deschamps retains the confidence of Philippe Diallo, the president of the French football federation.
Diallo remarked, “He’s still just as motivated and ready to wear the colors of the French team,” and added that Deschamps is neither fatigued nor deterred by criticism. He highlighted Deschamps’ ability to lead the team effectively, mentioning the success achieved in the Nations League where France topped their group.
As a player, Deschamps captained France to victory at both the 1998 World Cup and the 2000 European Championship, adding to his accolades that include Champions League triumphs with Marseille and Juventus. Before becoming the national team’s coach, he guided Monaco to the 2004 Champions League final and helped Juventus return to Serie A, along with leading Marseille to the Ligue 1 title in 2010.
Looking ahead, the World Cup in 2026 will be a collaborative effort between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, expanding the tournament to include 48 teams. Deschamps did not clarify what his future holds beyond the World Cup, stating simply, “There is a life afterwards. I don’t know what it will be.”
His announced departure offers ample opportunity for Diallo to identify a suitable successor, with former French star Zinedine Zidane being a popular frontrunner for the position should he wish to take it on. Zidane, a key player in France’s historic 1998 World Cup win and the 2000 European title, also achieved great success as a coach with Real Madrid, leading them to three consecutive Champions League victories.
