France’s Deschamps set to bow out after 14 years with Zidane in line

Didier Deschamps is poised to step down as the head coach of the French national football team after a remarkable 14-year period, with the upcoming World Cup third-place play-off against England marking the likely end of his era. Zinedine Zidane, a legendary former player and Deschamps' ex-teammate, is widely anticipated to take over the managerial reins.

Deschamps, 57, had aimed to secure a third World Cup title for France, but their campaign ended with a 2-0 semi-final loss to Spain. This defeat denied them a chance at a third consecutive World Cup final appearance, leaving them to compete for bronze. Deschamps, known for his pragmatic approach, reflected on his tenure, stating, “I had the privilege of experiencing moments that were magical, and others that were difficult. But life goes on. I’m a positive person, and I know things will be good, too. It’s the best thing that ever happened to me.”

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I had the privilege of experiencing moments that were magical, and others that were difficult. But life goes on. I’m a positive person, and I know things will be good, too. It’s the best thing that ever happened to me.

His legacy is cemented by the 2018 World Cup triumph, achieved 20 years after he captained France to their first global crown. Deschamps transformed the team after a low point in 2010, leading them to victory in Russia and propelling Kylian Mbappé to stardom. However, his tenure also saw significant disappointments, including the Euro 2016 final loss on home soil and the 2022 World Cup final defeat on penalties. Despite these setbacks, Deschamps has consistently guided France to at least the semi-finals in five of his seven major tournaments.

In recent times, Deschamps has evolved France's playing style, moving away from a more conservative approach. While previously criticized for not utilizing his talented squad's attacking potential more freely, he has recently implemented a more expansive game. When asked about his secret to consistent success, Deschamps humbly attributed it to "having very good players, I guess. But I can’t be doing my job too badly.”

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I don’t know, having very good players, I guess. But I can’t be doing my job too badly.