Didier Deschamps steps down as France coach after 14 years, citing 'unbreathable' environment following 6-4 World Cup loss to England

A tearful farewell in Miami

Didier Deschamps' 14-year tenure as France manager ended on Saturday, July 18, with a 6-4 defeat to England in the World Cup third-place playoff at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium. The match, his 185th and final one in charge, was a rollercoaster: France trailed 4-0 at halftime before a second-half rally fell short. Deschamps, who had announced his departure earlier, said the decision was made for the team's benefit.

I decided it had to stop. And if I decided, it's not for me, I tell you sincerely, it's for the good of the France team.

He described an environment that had become "tellement irrespirable" (so unbreathable) around him, adding that since the announcement, things had been much better for the squad. "There is nothing above this shirt," he said, stressing he left reluctantly.

A match of extremes

The 10-goal thriller set multiple records. France conceded six goals in a match for the first time since a 2-6 friendly loss to Switzerland 66 years ago. The first half was a disaster, with England scoring four unanswered goals. Aurélien Tchouameni, the vice-captain who started on the bench, watched in disbelief.

The group is disappointed for the coach, for what he represents for us and for the country.

The second-half comeback, which saw France pull back to 4-6, offered a glimmer of pride but ultimately not the send-off Deschamps deserved.

Player ratings: Mbappé shines

Kylian Mbappé finished the tournament as France's standout performer, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists, according to Franceinfo's player ratings. He became the nation's all-time top scorer with 66 goals and the World Cup's all-time leading marksman with 22 goals. Adrien Rabiot (6.6/10) and Dayot Upamecano (6.8/10) were also among the most consistent players. Upamecano's authoritative defending and second-half introduction helped stabilise the team after the break. Michael Olise, tipped as a breakout star, faded against Spain in the semi-finals, earning a 5.5/10.

Deschamps' legacy in numbers

Deschamps leaves an unparalleled statistical footprint. Over 14 years, he managed 185 matches, winning 120, including 20 World Cup victories. He handed debuts to 89 players and oversaw 20% of all France matches ever played. Under his guidance, France won the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League, reached the Euro 2016 final and the 2022 World Cup final, and made three consecutive World Cup semi-finals. In total, 40% of France's major titles were won during his tenure. He is the third most-capped international manager, behind Uruguay's Oscar Tabarez (224) and Germany's Joachim Löw (198).

What comes next

Zinedine Zidane will take over as France head coach on September 1, L'Équipe reported. Deschamps, 57, said he will not retire and will remain in football.

I don't know what awaits me, but it will be something different, but it will be something good too. I will do it with the same heart and the same passion.

He ruled out a move into politics or baking, joking he would stay in the game. For now, the Deschamps era ends with a defeat, but his place in French football history is secure.