Didier Deschamps to Step Down as France Coach After 2026 World Cup
Didier Deschamps has announced his intention to resign as the head coach of the French men's national team following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. In an interview with French television network TF1, Deschamps stated, 'I will step down after 2026; I have done my time.' At 56 years old, Deschamps has been at the helm of the French national team since 2012. During his tenure, he achieved remarkable success, including winning the FIFA World Cup in 2018 and leading France to the finals again in 2022, where they were narrowly defeated by Argentina in a penalty shootout.
Deschamps stands out in football history as one of only three individuals to have won the World Cup both as a player and as a coach, alongside legendary figures Mário Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer. Over his twelve-year coaching period, he has revitalized French football and restored the team's status among the elite in Europe and globally.
However, his coaching style has faced scrutiny. Critics argue that Deschamps often relies too heavily on the individual talents of star players such as Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann, rather than fostering a cohesive team strategy and recognizable playing principles. This concern was amplified during the last European Championships, where France was eliminated in the semifinals by Spain, a team widely recognized for its superior collective play.
As speculation about his successor grows, many media outlets have pointed to former Real Madrid coach Zinédine Zidane, who is currently without a team, as the frontrunner to take over the coaching responsibilities after the 2026 World Cup. Deschamps' announcement marks the beginning of a transitional phase for French football, as the nation prepares to bid farewell to a coach who has left an indelible mark on its legacy.
Related Sources: