Didier Deschamps, the man with records with the France team, announced that he would leave his position as coach after the 2026 World Cup. A decision that he will make official this Wednesday, according to information from L’Équipe. After fourteen years at the head of the Blues, the Bayonne technician chose to hand over, and the reason for his departure could surprise more than one.
According to those close to him, the wear and tear of time and the weight of responsibilities seem to weigh heavily in the balance. Deschamps himself confided this summer that he did not want
“continue to continue”. Despite his success over the years, he would have become aware of a need for renewal for himself as for the French team.
A career marked by summits and criticism
In office since 2012, Didier Deschamps has become an emblematic figure of French football, accumulating 165 selections as coach, two World Cup finals (2018 and 2022) and a world victory in 2018. But this longevity also has a downside. The criticisms against him, particularly those this summer after the Euro, would have reinforced his feeling of incomprehension.
Deschamps bows out.
Despite everything, Deschamps remains faithful to his ambitions. According to L’Équipe, he said he wanted to conclude his mandate in the best possible way. He hopes to lead the Blues to a second world title in 2026, an unprecedented feat for a post-war coach.
Deschamps wants to protect the Blues
The announcement of his departure, well in advance, also aims to calm the debates around his future. By brushing aside the recurring questions, he wishes to allow the selection to concentrate fully on the upcoming events: the Nations League and the World Cup.
Deschamps, who will be 58 years old in 2026, wants to bow out by leaving a rejuvenated and competitive team to his successor. This decision, although anticipated, marks the end of an era which will have had a lasting impact on French football. For the double world champion, it is now a question of finishing in apotheosis and closing a chapter rich in success and emotion.
