Thierry Henry spoke this Tuesday in the show Rothen s’igné on RMC to discuss his future ambitions as a coach. While his name is mentioned among the potential successors of Didier Deschamps at the head of the France team in 2026, the former French international has finally spoken on the subject. However, his statements, cautious but revealing, left a certain mystery lingering.
A hidden application?
Without openly confirming his intentions, Thierry Henry suggested that he was not ruling out anything concerning a possible return to a bench, whether at club or national level. He spoke of his desire to return to an ambitious project, while remaining discreet about his precise plans: “I’m not saying it’s over, far from it. I aspire and I would like to return to a bench. But for now, there is nothing.”
Regarding a possible preference between a position of selector or coach at a club, Henry was clear:
“Frankly, I’m open to anything. It will depend on the project.” A posture which further fuels speculation, particularly around the role of coach of the Blues, which will be vacant in the summer of 2026.
Thierry Henry remains evasive about his future.
Praise for Zidane
Henry, lucid, also welcomed the candidacy of Zinedine Zidane, favorite to succeed Deschamps. “It would simply be deserved,” he confided. A recognition towards his former teammate from 1998, while carefully avoiding positioning himself as a rival.
Despite rumors placing him among the suitors, Henry insisted that “Didier Deschamps is still in office.” A message of respect towards the current coach, whom he wanted to thank for his advice during his time at the head of the Espoirs: “He explained to me how to properly prepare a selection, how it works at the Fédé. I have to say thank you for everything.”
International experience to showcase
Unhappy finalist at the 2024 Olympic Games with the Bleuets, Thierry Henry has gained valuable experience as a coach. His years spent as assistant to Roberto Martinez with Belgium, where he worked at the very highest level, strengthen his profile for a possible return with the Blues.
Henry does not seem in a hurry to decide on his future, but he admitted that his rating had increased since his summer success with the Bleuets. “Before, I would have taken anything and everything to prove something to myself. Today I am in a better position.”
What future for Henry?
For now, the former Gunner is keeping his ambitions to himself, but his speech this Tuesday only confirms the growing interest around his future. It remains to be seen whether the FFF will seriously consider its candidacy for 2026, facing names as prestigious as that of Zidane.
