Didier Deschamps, the long-serving manager of France’s national football team, has announced that he plans to step down after the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Deschamps, 56, has been at the helm since 2012, making him France’s longest-serving coach. Over the years, he’s achieved incredible milestones, including leading France to victory in the 2018 World Cup in Russia and guiding the team to the finals of both the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and Euro 2016 on home turf.
In a candid interview with French broadcaster TF1, Deschamps reflected on his journey: “In 2026, it will be time for me to step away. I’ve given my all to keep France at the top, but it’s important to know when to move on. Life has more to offer beyond this role.”
As France prepares for their qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup, all eyes will be on their Nations League quarter-final against Croatia in March, which will determine their group placement.
Deschamps has etched his name in football history, becoming one of only three individuals—alongside Mario Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer—to win the World Cup both as a player and as a manager. He famously captained the French team to their first World Cup victory in 1998.
Taking charge after France’s exit from Euro 2012, Deschamps guided the team to the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup and the final of Euro 2016. His crowning achievement came in 2018, when France secured their second World Cup title with a stunning 4-2 win over Croatia. He also led France to a Nations League triumph in 2021 and to another World Cup final in 2022, where they narrowly lost to Argentina in an unforgettable penalty shootout.
Before coaching the national team, Deschamps managed top clubs like Monaco, Juventus, and Marseille, earning numerous trophies. As a player, he enjoyed a storied career, winning 14 major titles, including Champions League honors with Marseille and Juventus, and an FA Cup with Chelsea.
With 103 caps for France, Deschamps captained the team to victory in the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000, leaving an indelible mark on the sport both on and off the pitch.
