With Didier Deschamps set to step down as head coach of the France nationwide crew after the 2026 World Cup, hypothesis has mounted about his potential successor. Whereas there’s nonetheless time to finalize plans, one identify gaining consideration is French legend Thierry Henry, who’s reportedly being pursued by an European nationwide crew.
Henry has amassed appreciable teaching expertise lately. After a quick and difficult stint with Monaco (5 wins, 4 attracts, 11 losses) and a tenure with MLS facet Montreal Influence, which he left in 2021 for household causes, Henry discovered success with France’s U-21 crew. He guided them to a silver medal on the Paris 2024 Olympics, dropping to Spain within the remaining, a efficiency that has caught the attention of prime footballing establishments.
In keeping with journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Henry’s candidacy is gaining momentum throughout the Belgium Soccer Federation. Backed by the help of distinguished former gamers, Henry is considered as a great candidate by a council of senior figures led by the crew’s leaders.
Henry’s presence might persuade star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne to increase his worldwide profession for the 2026 World Cup, whereas additionally facilitating Thibaut Courtois’s return to the squad after a contentious exclusion by coach Domenico Tedesco for the 2024 European Championship.
The French icon has a powerful reference to the Belgian nationwide crew, having served as an assistant coach below Roberto Martinez throughout two separate spells (2016-2018 and 2021-2023). This familiarity with the gamers and infrastructure makes him a reputable choice to take over the reins.
France’s seek for Deschamps’ successor
Deschamps’ announcement has compelled France to contemplate their choices for the primary time since 2012. Whereas Henry is within the combine, questions stay about whether or not his comparatively restricted head teaching expertise on the prime degree makes him the only option for the function.
“I’ve been right here since 2012 and can stay till 2026 and the following World Cup, however it should finish there as a result of it has to. In my thoughts, it’s clear. 2026, it’s high quality. You by no means need one thing good to finish, however you must know when to cease,” Deschamps informed TF1, making his exit plans express.
One various often talked about is Zinedine Zidane. The previous Actual Madrid coach, who left the membership in 2021, has been ready for the chance to return to administration. Zidane’s resume and status make him a prime contender, although whether or not he is able to step into Deschamps’ footwear stays to be seen.
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