Didier Deschamps' extensive and successful tenure as manager of the French national football team has concluded, not with a final victory but in the World Cup third-place playoff.
Deschamps, who led France for 14 years, is one of only three individuals to have won the World Cup as both a player and a manager, alongside Brazil's Mário Zagallo and Germany's Franz Beckenbauer. His 14-year stint is notable for its longevity in the modern era of international football management. During his time as manager, France reached at least the quarter-finals in four successive World Cup tournaments. They were close to retaining the title in 2022, ultimately losing to Argentina on penalties in the final.
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Under Deschamps, France won 20 of their 26 World Cup games, with only three losses. He was involved in more than half of the total World Cup games France has won and was at the helm for both of their World Cup trophy lifts. The squad for the recent tournament included top scorer Kylian Mbappé, Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, and emerging talent Michael Olise, supported by an established defense and midfield.
Former France striker Olivier Giroud, who played under Deschamps, commented on the team's motivation. "There was extra motivation for all the players at this World Cup to give Didier the ending he wanted, and deserved," Giroud said. "He deserved to exit by the big door. He did not quite manage that but he is still a great, for what he has already done in his 14 years. His record does the talking for him."
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Giroud also described Deschamps as a father figure to some players. "He gave me so many times his confidence, and I tried to repay him on the pitch. This makes us very close and because we won that World Cup, we are linked forever," he added. Giroud noted Deschamps' coaching philosophy, which allowed talented players freedom while providing clear instructions for balance and tactical structure.
"The biggest thing he taught us was his desire, and his drive and ambition to be the absolute best and to win every single game. His competitive mindset was so clear," Giroud stated, highlighting Deschamps' influential competitive spirit.