Didier Deschamps to Step Down After 2026 World Cup: Reflecting on a Career of Achievements and Setbacks

Today marks the beginning of an end to an era as Didier Deschamps officially announces to step down as the head coach of the French national team after the 2026 World Cup. After more than a decade in charge, Deschamps leaves behind a legacy of triumphs, resilience, and controversy. His tenure has been one of the most successful in French football history, but it also had its share of challenges.

This feature is set to examine Deschamps’ records, achievements, and setbacks as France’s head coach, and evaluates the lasting impact of his time in charge.

The Beginning: A Manager with a Winning Mentality

When Deschamps was appointed as head coach in July 2012, expectations were high. A World Cup-winning captain in 1998, he brought a reputation for leadership and discipline. Having already achieved managerial success with Monaco (Champions League finalist in 2004), Juventus (Serie B champion in 2007), and Marseille (Ligue 1 winner in 2010), Deschamps seemed the perfect candidate to guide a talented but disjointed French team.

At the time of his appointment, Les Bleus were recovering from the disastrous 2010 World Cup campaign marred by in-fighting and a lack of discipline. Deschamps’ mission was clear: restore pride to the national team and turn their immense talent into tangible success.

Deschamps Achievements: A Golden Era for French Football

Deschamps’ crowning achievement came in 2018 when he led France to their second FIFA World Cup title, 20 years after lifting the trophy as captain. His pragmatic 4-2-3-1 system emphasized defensive solidity and quick transitions, perfectly suited to the squad’s mix of experienced players and emerging stars.

Kylian Mbappé’s explosive pace, N’Golo Kanté’s resilience in the midfield, and Antoine Griezmann’s creativity were vital to the team’s success. France defeated Croatia 4-2 in the final, showcasing a perfect blend of tactical discipline and individual brilliance.U

Furthermore, he added another trophy to his collection by guiding France to victory in the 2021 UEFA Nations League. France’s resilience was on display as they came from behind to defeat Belgium in the semi-finals and Spain in the final.

Not to forget that under Deschamps, France reached the latter stages of major tournaments with remarkable consistency: Runners-up, losing to Portugal in the final and finalists, narrowly losing to Argentina on penalties in a thrilling match.

Deschamps’ ability to build teams capable of competing at the highest level was unmatched, making France one of the most feared teams in international football during his tenure

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Deschamps Setbacks: Missed Opportunities and Criticism

The biggest blemish on Deschamps’ record was France’s early exit from Euro 2020. Despite being the pre-tournament favorites, Les Bleus were eliminated in the Round of 16 by Switzerland. Deschamps’ decision to switch to a three-man defense backfired, leaving the team exposed defensively.

Kylian Mbappé’s missed penalty in the shootout highlighted the team’s failure to handle pressure in crucial moments.While Deschamps’ pragmatism brought success, it also attracted criticism. In addition, rance’s abundance of attacking talent often seemed constrained by his conservative tactics.

Players like Ousmane Dembélé occasionally struggled to find their best form under his system.Deschamps was sometimes accused of being too loyal to certain players, even when their form declined. Not to forget that managing a squad full of star players came with its challenges.

In addition, was the Benzema Saga, Deschamps initially excluded Karim Benzema from the national team following his involvement in an off-field controversy, a decision that divided fans and pundits. While Benzema eventually returned, the situation highlighted the delicate balance Deschamps had to maintain.

Deschamps’ Records and Legacy

Deschamps managed the Les Blues in 152 matches until his announcement to step down as head coach, securing 103 victories, 29 draws and 20 loses with a 67.8% winning percentage.

In addition his achievements in charge of the French national team included the 2018 World Cup victory over Critics, a victory over Belgium in the 2021 UEFA Nations League, Euro finalists, losing to Portugal in 2016 and World Cup loss to Argentina in 2022.

Hence, Deschamps leaves as one of the most successful managers in international football. His ability to create a winning culture and foster team unity will be remembered as key pillars of his tenure.

How Does the Future Holds for France?

As Deschamps steps down, attention turns to his successor. France’s next coach will inherit a squad filled with generational talent, including Mbappé, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni. However, they will also face the daunting task of matching or surpassing Deschamps’ achievements.

Conclusion

Didier Deschamps’ tenure as France’s head coach was defined by success, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. While his pragmatic approach may not have pleased everyone, it delivered results, cementing his place among the greatest managers in football history.As Deschamps departs, he leaves behind a legacy of glory and a blueprint for sustained success. For French football, the challenge now is to build on that foundation and continue competing at the highest level. For Didier Deschamps, the future remains uncertain, but his impact on French football is indelible.