Didier Deschamps surprised everyone by announcing his departure from the Blues after the 2026 World Cup. If this declaration made an impression, it was not a total surprise for a restricted circle of people. Well before his interview on the 1 p.m. news on TF1, certain figures close to the coach had been taken into confidence. But who are they?
Deschamps, a family circle above all
According to revelations from Le Figaro, five people already knew that Deschamps would not extend his adventure at the head of the France team. At the top of the list is his immediate family. Claude Deschamps, his wife, and Dylan, their son, were naturally informed very early of this momentous decision.
His loyal agent, Jean-Pierre Bernès, who has been with him for many years, was also part of this restricted circle. Just like Guy Stéphan, his long-time assistant with the Blues since 2012, with whom he has shared all the major stages of his coaching career.
Deschamps only told 5 people.
Finally, the president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, was made aware of Deschamps’ decision well before the public announcement. Diallo had learned the news during the end-of-year holidays, which allowed him to prepare to manage this transition smoothly.
A late announcement to preserve the Blues
Deschamps wanted to keep this decision secret to avoid any media leaks and preserve serenity around the France team. This choice surprised many Blues players, who discovered the news on their phone like everyone else, the evening of the announcement.
If this revelation caused a lot of noise, it is part of the thoughtful and measured manner of the coach, keen to maintain a calm environment until the end of his mandate in 2026.
