Didier Deschamps has taken France to three major finals in his 14-year stint as manager. In an exclusive interview, the departing head coach reflects on his legacy, the challenges of managing a new generation, and the team's prospects for the 2026 World Cup.
A Legacy of Success
Deschamps, who captained France to World Cup glory in 1998 and repeated the feat as manager in 2018, is proud of the team's consistent performance. 'We're among the favourites,' he says. 'It isn't a taboo word for me. If we have this status today, which seems logical and legitimate to me, it's because of everything that we have done, the results we achieved.'
Adaptation and Man Management
Deschamps emphasises the importance of adaptation in both tactics and man management. 'The generation from when I started in 2012 is not the same as today ... the new generation need more exchanges,' he explains. He praises Kylian Mbappé's leadership, noting that the captain 'knows that when he speaks, he doesn't speak in his own name, but he speaks in the name of all the players as well.'
Defending Mbappé's Position
Deschamps also defends his use of Mbappé in a central attacking role, stating that the forward has played there for three years at Real Madrid and PSG. Despite Mbappé's underwhelming Euro 2024 performance, Deschamps points to his difficult preparation and the broken nose he suffered in the opening match.
Balancing Attack and Defence
With a wealth of attacking talent, Deschamps must find the right balance. 'It's about managing the frustration of those who won't start the game,' he says. He cites the example of Antoine Griezmann, who played as a fourth attacker in midfield during the 2022 World Cup, and praises Michael Olise as 'one of the best players at the World Cup.'
The Future Beyond the World Cup
Deschamps, who will step down after the World Cup, insists he is not thinking about his next move. 'I won't make any decision until after the tournament,' he says, adding that he has 'the freedom to choose.' He leaves behind a legacy of success, regardless of the outcome in North America.
