In a recent interview with French broadcaster TF1, Didier Deschamps, France's World Cup-winning manager, revealed that he will be stepping down as coach of the national team after the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Deschamps, who has been at the helm of Les Bleus since 2012, is the country's longest-serving coach, with an impressive record of achievements.
Under Deschamps' leadership, France has experienced a golden era, winning the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where they defeated Croatia 4-2 in the final. He also guided the team to the Euro 2016 final on home soil and the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where they narrowly lost to Argentina on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Deschamps' decision to step down after the 2026 World Cup marks the end of an era for French football. Speaking about his decision, Deschamps said, "In 2026, it will be over. In my head, it's very clear. I've done my time, with the same desire and passion to keep France at the highest level. But one has to be able to say stop—there's life after this."
Before taking charge of the French national team, Deschamps had a successful coaching career with clubs such as Monaco, Juventus, and Marseille, winning numerous trophies along the way. As a player, he enjoyed a decorated career, lifting 14 major titles, including Champions League trophies with Marseille and Juventus and the FA Cup with Chelsea. He earned 103 caps for France, captaining the team to victory at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000.
Deschamps is one of only three people, alongside Mario Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer, to have won the World Cup as both a player and manager. His legacy as one of the greatest coaches in French football history is cemented, and his decision to step down after the 2026 World Cup will mark the end of an era.
France's qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup is yet to begin, with their group depending on the outcome of their Nations League quarter-final against Croatia in March. As Deschamps prepares for his final chapter as France coach, he will be determined to leave on a high note and bring another World Cup title to the French nation.
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