Didier Deschamps To Resign As France Manager After 2026 World Cup

Didier Deschamps has confirmed that he will step down as the manager of the French national team after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable era in French football.

Deschamps, who has been in charge since 2012, led France to victory in the 2018 World Cup and reached the final in 2022, alongside other major successes.

In an interview, Deschamps stated, “I’ve been here since 2012, I’m scheduled until 2026, the next World Cup. It will stop there because it has to stop at some point.”

He emphasized his commitment to keeping the French team at the top but acknowledged that 14 years in charge was a long time. Despite his achievements, including winning the 2018 World Cup and overseeing consistent success in major tournaments, Deschamps has faced some criticism for his conservative style of play.

His tenure has included reaching the semi-finals of four out of six major tournaments, and he is only the third man to win the World Cup both as a player and manager, joining Mario Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer.

Zinedine Zidane is widely regarded as the leading candidate to replace Deschamps, with the former French captain and Real Madrid manager expected to take over.

Hugo Lloris, who captained France under Deschamps, described him as an “inspiration to the players,” noting his calm leadership and strong relationship with the squad.

Deschamps, who also enjoyed success with Monaco, Juventus, and Marseille before his national team role, will leave his position after the 2026 World Cup unless France fails to qualify for the tournament.