Didier Deschamps Leaves France Role After World Cup Third-Place Defeat

The French Football Federation has announced the departure of national team coach Didier Deschamps following France’s 6-4 defeat to England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place playoff.

The match was held in Miami, with the result leaving France outside the tournament’s top three.

In a statement, the federation praised Deschamps’ unique place in French football history, having captained the national team to victory at the 1998 World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 before later leading France to the 2018 World Cup title as coach.

Deschamps had been in charge of the national team since 2012, overseeing one of the most successful periods in its history.

Under his leadership, France won the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Nations League, while also reaching several major finals and maintaining a consistently high level of performance.

The federation praised what it described as his exceptional work and said he had represented the values of discipline, teamwork and commitment throughout his tenure.

Deschamps, 57, managed France in 185 matches and recorded 120 victories.

He also played a central role in developing several generations of international players and strengthening the relationship between the national team and its supporters.

France, winners of the World Cup in 1998 and 2018, finished as runners-up at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 after losing the final to Argentina on penalties.

The match at Lusail Stadium ended 3-3 after extra time, before Argentina secured a 4-2 victory in the penalty shootout.

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