France striker Kylian Mbappe expressed gratitude towards coach Didier Deschamps, who is leaving after 14 years of service to Les Bleus and French football. Following a 4-6 defeat to England, France secured a fourth-place finish in the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking Deschamps’ farewell after leading the team for 14 years. Deschamps, who took over in 2012, guided the team to a World Cup victory in 2018.
In a heartfelt note, Mbappe acknowledged Deschamps’ significant impact over the past 14 years and regretted not providing a better ending. He praised Deschamps for his pivotal role in the team’s resurgence and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country on the global stage. Mbappe also highlighted the privilege of working alongside a legendary figure like Deschamps.
Deschamps, who led the French national team to multiple successes including the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League, is credited with restoring the team’s reputation and maintaining a high level of performance. As a former World Cup-winning captain and coach, Deschamps holds a special place in French football history. He is recognized for nurturing talent, instilling strong values, and fostering a deep connection between the team and the nation.
