Fourteen years of leadership came to an end in dramatic fashion. Didier Deschamps concluded his tenure as French national team coach with a closely contested third-place playoff match against England at the 2026 World Cup. The French squad, despite falling behind 4-0 at halftime, mounted a spirited comeback in a thrilling 4-6 defeat.

“Today has been incredibly special for me, given everything the French team has meant in my life. All good things must come to an end,

Deschamps shared with beIN Sports. I’ll miss this team.” The departing coach leaves behind a remarkable legacy: 120 wins, 35 draws, and 30 losses, including a World Cup victory and two heartbreaking final defeats at Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup.

“I loved every minute of it”

Even in his farewell address, Deschamps maintained his high standards. “The first half was a disaster,

he admitted. But the players showed pride, nearly turning a hopeless situation around. These are world-class athletes, young and full of potential. They have what it takes to compete at the highest level for years to come.“

Despite the disappointment, Deschamps publicly praised his squad, his voice heavy with emotion: “I thanked them for their fight after the semifinal loss, but also for their pride in coming back. They need to carry that fire under the French jersey—nothing comes close to it. I thanked them as people too, because I absolutely loved every moment these past weeks. The camaraderie, especially with the younger players, made it all worthwhile. The future looks incredibly bright for them.“

The French team he leaves behind is still young, with most of its core players in their prime. “The results of recent years have created expectations, but it’s not pressure,

he reflected. What matters is the quality of these players. There are other ingredients needed for success. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together—a united group. I’m proud of my staff, and a little proud of myself too. It’s over for me, at least as far as the French team is concerned. I’m still young, but first, I’m going to enjoy time with my family and recharge. As I always say, the best is yet to come.”