In January of this year, French media reported that Didier Deschamps would step down as head coach of the French national team after the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Yesterday, the 56-year-old coach personally confirmed the news, stating: “By next September, I will definitely no longer be in this position.”
Before the squad fully assembled, Deschamps held a press conference to address his plans after his contract expires next year.
Reporters first asked Deschamps about his performance in 2025 compared with when he first took charge of the French national team in 2012. He replied: “Although I am thirteen years older, I know very well that it doesn’t really show.”
Years Of Coaching Take A Toll
When asked whether the 2026 World Cup would mark the end of his tenure with France, Deschamps responded: “Next September, I will certainly no longer be here. I will take on a new role elsewhere, but the exact location has not yet been determined. I know this is not a farewell, only the last year of my time here.”
Although Deschamps led France to a World Cup title, a World Cup runner-up finish, and the UEFA Nations League crown in 2021, the long years in charge have left him physically and mentally drained. He now hopes to spend more time with his family.
Aiming For First Place In The Group
In the European qualifiers for the World Cup, France have been drawn in Group D alongside Ukraine, Azerbaijan, and Iceland, and their prospects for qualification look very promising.
Deschamps cautioned his players not to get complacent. He said, “Qualifying for the World Cup is never a given. Top-level competition is ruthless, if our performance drops even slightly, the consequences could be serious.”
“I will give everything to achieve the best result. Our responsibility is to finish first in the group and qualify directly.”
Zidane The Favorite
Although Deschamps’ successor has yet to be named, Zinedine Zidane, his teammate in France’s 1998 World Cup triumph, is regarded as the leading candidate.
Despite limited coaching experience before taking over at Real Madrid, Zidane quickly led the club to remarkable success, including two La Liga titles, two Spanish Super Cups, three UEFA Champions League trophies, two UEFA Super Cups, and two FIFA Club World Cups, proving his managerial excellence.
Dugarry’s View
Christophe Dugarry, who played alongside both Deschamps and Zidane, commented on the situation: “It’s a wise decision. I haven’t sent him any messages, nor has Zidane. But of course, we all hope Zidane will take the job after 2026.”
“Still, it’s his choice, and this is only my personal long-term wish. I hope it happens one day, and sincerely wish it will be in 2026.”
Deschamps’ departure will open a new chapter for the French national team, with the appointment of the next head coach now in the spotlight.
