France Manager Didier Deschamps backed by French president to continue till 2026 World Cup

Karim Benzema-Didier Deschamps-France
Karim Benzema-Didier Deschamps-France | Photo Credit: IMAGO

France manager Didier Deschamps has hinted he could continue as the national team manager until after Euro 2024.

The 54-year-old led France to their second consecutive World Cup final on Sunday but narrowly missed out on the chance to become just the second manager ever to win two World Cups as his side lost on penalties to Argentina.

Speaking after the tournament, Deschamps refused to give any clear plans about his future; instead, he insisted he would be allowed time to consider his next move.

However, according to L’Equipe via Get French Football News, the 2018 World Cup-winning coach is keen to lead his side in Germany in 2024 and possibly to the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Despite missing several key players through injury, France enjoyed a successful outing in Qatar, losing just once in the tournament–a 1-0 loss to Tunisia in their final group game.

One of the players who missed out was Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema. The 35-year-old announced his retirement from international football yesterday, but reports have suggested he could change his mind if Deschamps were to leave his role.

Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has been linked with taking over as France’s manager. Benzema has a good relationship with the France legend and could cancel his retirement if Zidane is hired.

Deschamps’ contract is set to expire at the end of the calendar year, but it has been confirmed he will meet French Football Federation president Noel Le Graet to discuss his future.

Although a decision is expected in the new year, it is understood Le Graet and France president Emmanuel Macron favour a situation where Deschamps continues.