Departing France coach Didier Deschamps decided to end his 14-year spell in the role ​because of a “stifling atmosphere” around him, ‌he says, following Les Bleus’ 6-4 loss to England at the World ​Cup, Reuters reports.

“I decided that it had to stop. ​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”, he told M6.

“Because the atmosphere ​around me had become so stifling. The French national ‌team ⁠doesn’t deserve that.”

Deschamps announced last year that he would ​leave when his contract expired after the ⁠tournament.

 France coach Didier Deschamp during a pitch walkaround before the France v England match at Miami Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida, US on July 18, 2026. — Reuters
France coach Didier Deschamp during a pitch walkaround before the France v England match at Miami Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida, US on July 18, 2026. — Reuters

Opinion

Editorial

Kashmir unresolved
Updated 30 Sep, 2026

Kashmir unresolved

The just solution lies in India addressing the issue through a trilateral dialogue involving the legitimate representatives of the Kashmiri people and Pakistan.
Water shortage
30 Sep, 2026

Water shortage

THAT the country is entering the Rabi season with an anticipated water shortage of nearly 25pc, the lowest carryover...
Young hearts
30 Sep, 2026

Young hearts

THE observance may have passed, but the message of World Heart Day should not fade with it. The occasion is a useful...
Terror and politics
Updated 29 Sep, 2026

Terror and politics

There is an urgent need to tone down the rhetoric and tackle terrorism as a collective challenge for both the affected provinces and the federation.
Watching the glaciers
29 Sep, 2026

Watching the glaciers

THE latest signs from Pakistan’s mountains are worrying. Suparco says the number of unfrozen glacial lakes it...
Dangerous agenda
29 Sep, 2026

Dangerous agenda

AS the world remains fixated on the US-Iran conflict, elsewhere in the Middle East, Israel is consolidating its grip...