Deschamps says ‘stifling’ atmosphere led him to step down as France coach
- Didier Deschamps explained Saturday what led to his departure as France coach after a 14-year tenure, citing a “stifling atmosphere” around him as the primary reason for his decision.
- He remarked on his exit, announced last year, after Les Bleus’ 6-4 defeat to England in the third-place play-off at the World Cup.
- “I decided that it had to stop,” Deschamps said. “And if I made that decision, it wasn’t for my own sake – I’m telling you this in all honesty – it was for the good of the French team. Because the atmosphere around me had become so stifling. The French national team doesn’t deserve that.”
- During his time as coach which began in 2012, Deschamps was sometimes criticised for prioritising balance, discipline, and efficiency over a more spectacular style of play. “Ever since the announcement, things have been much better for the French team,” he added.
- He will be remembered for leading France to their second World Cup title in 2018, two decades after he captained the team to their first victory in 1998.
More bulletins