France manager Didier Deschamps has temporarily left the World Cup in Boston following the death of his mother, the French Football Federation confirmed on Tuesday. Assistant coach Guy Stephan will take charge of the team for their final group stage match against Norway on Friday night.
Deschamps Returns Home for Family
The 57-year-old, a World Cup-winning captain and manager, flew home to attend his mother's funeral. The French Football Federation released a statement expressing Deschamps' deep sadness and requesting respect for his privacy during this difficult time.
"The national team coach was deeply saddened to learn this morning of the passing of his mother," the statement read. "In agreement with Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, who is present at the French national team’s training camp, Didier Deschamps has entrusted his assistant, Guy Stephan, with the responsibility of leading the squad until his return."
France's World Cup Campaign Continues
France currently top Group I alongside Norway, level on points but ahead on goal difference after convincing wins against Senegal and Iraq. A win or draw against Norway would secure top spot. Stephan, Deschamps' assistant since 2012, will lead the team until the manager returns.
Deschamps' Legacy
Deschamps captained France to World Cup victory in 1998 and Euro 2000. As manager, he led Les Bleus to the 2018 World Cup title, the 2016 Euro final, and the 2022 World Cup final, where they lost to Argentina on penalties.
