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January 9, 2025 at 5:41 AM

Deschamps' Decision Shocks French National Team

Didier Deschamps' decision to step down as France's head coach after the 2026 World Cup has surprised the French squad, including captain Kylian Mbappe.

Deschamps' Decision Shocks French National Team

The French national team, led by head coach Didier Deschamps, has been taken by surprise following his unexpected announcement to step down after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This revelation, which has reportedly shocked players, including team captain Kylian Mbappe, was made without prior consultation with the squad.

According to reports from Le Parisien, Deschamps did not inform his players in advance about his plans to retire from the position he has held since 2012. The suddenness of the announcement has left many within the French camp unsettled, as Deschamps has been a key figure in their success over the last decade.

During his illustrious tenure, Deschamps has guided the team to several historic achievements, including winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the 2021 UEFA Nations League, and reaching the finals of both Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup. Under his leadership, France has become one of the most consistent teams in international football, playing a total of 165 matches with 105 victories, 34 draws, and only 26 defeats.

Deschamps' leadership has been marked by a strong bond with his players, which makes his decision to step down all the more surprising. It is believed that the announcement was motivated by his desire to conclude his career with France on a high note after the 2026 World Cup, allowing a new era to begin for the team.

For the French Football Federation, the search for a successor will now take center stage. Many speculate that Zinedine Zidane, a former teammate of Deschamps and a managerial icon, could step into the role. Zidane has long been viewed as a natural choice to lead Les Bleus, given his track record of success at Real Madrid and his strong ties to French football.

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins, the French squad faces the dual challenge of preparing for the tournament while adapting to the reality of Deschamps' eventual departure. The focus now shifts to ensuring that the team remains united and motivated, with the goal of giving their coach a fitting send-off in what could be another triumphant chapter in France's football history.