Didier Deschamps, the long-serving manager of the French national football team, has confirmed that he will step down from his role after the 2026 World Cup. This marks the end of a distinguished era for both Deschamps and French football, as he has been at the helm since 2012, leading Les Bleus through some of their most successful campaigns.
Deschamps, who himself was a key player in France’s 1998 World Cup victory, took over as manager following Laurent Blanc’s resignation. Under his guidance, the French national team experienced remarkable success, including winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup. His leadership also saw France reach the final of the 2022 World Cup and the 2016 UEFA European Championship. These achievements solidified Deschamps as one of the most successful managers in the history of French football.
Despite his immense success, Deschamps has decided that his time with the national team will come to an end after the 2026 World Cup. In an interview, he expressed that he had made the decision to step down in his mind already, acknowledging that all good things must come to an end. His tenure will span 14 years, a testament to his dedication and commitment to the French team.
Deschamps’ tenure as the longest-serving national team coach is a source of pride for him. He emphasized that his primary goal throughout his time as manager was to maintain France’s position at the highest level of international football. While he is not motivated by records or accolades, he acknowledged that it was important for the team to continue performing at an elite level, regardless of his own personal legacy.
In addition to his success with the French national team, Deschamps has had a successful club career. He managed several top clubs, including Monaco, Juventus, and Marseille, before taking on the role of national team coach. His time at Monaco was particularly notable, as he guided the club to the 2003-04 UEFA Champions League final, where they played an exciting brand of counter-attacking football. During this period, he helped nurture the careers of players like Patrice Evra and Emmanuel Adebayor, both of whom would go on to have successful careers in football.
Deschamps’ decision to step down after the 2026 World Cup comes at a time when the French team is still among the strongest in the world. Whether or not they qualify for the tournament, Deschamps’ legacy will be cemented as one of the greatest national team managers in history. His leadership has been instrumental in France’s return to prominence on the world stage, and his departure will mark the end of an era that has seen the team reach unprecedented heights.
Looking ahead, the French football federation will undoubtedly begin considering potential successors to Deschamps, but his influence will remain a significant part of the team’s future. His departure after the 2026 World Cup, whether or not France lifts the trophy, will close a remarkable chapter in the history of French football.
