As the 2026 World Cup approaches, France’s captain, Kylian Mbappé, delivered a speech filled with humor and gratitude towards his coach, Didier Deschamps. The Real Madrid forward spoke in an interview with M6 just days before the start of the global competition.
This edition of the World Cup holds special significance for the French staff, as Didier Deschamps confirmed he will step down after the tournament. After fourteen years at the helm of Les Bleus, the French coach will end a long cycle marked by a world title in 2018 and a final appearance in 2022. This prospect adds symbolic weight to the upcoming competition, seen as a final collective mission.
In this context, Kylian Mbappé emphasized the importance of finishing this collaboration in the best possible way. For him, the sporting goal remains the greatest tribute to his coach. He recalled the winning mentality that characterizes Deschamps and the mindset that has been instilled in the group over the years.
The captain of Les Bleus stated, “The best way to honor him is to win. Because he loves winning. So we will make sure he has the best of last World Cups.”
Beyond this heartfelt tribute, the French forward also touched on a lighter note regarding the speculation surrounding Didier Deschamps’ future after leaving the French team. Several hypotheses have been floated in the media, including a possible role with another national team.
This point sparked an ironic reaction from Mbappé. The player expressed his wish that his coach does not pursue opportunities elsewhere in international football after this chapter with Les Bleus. He referenced some rumors circulating about prestigious destinations.
He added, “Hoping this is his last. Because I hope he doesn’t take on another team. I’m putting the pressure on him. I saw they talked about Italy and all, but that would be ugly, right? Argentina? No! This is coach Didier Deschamps after all.”
These statements, delivered in a deliberately relaxed tone, illustrate the trust and respect between the player and his coach. They also highlight the importance of the upcoming challenge for the French team, which will approach the 2026 World Cup with the ambition to conclude a major cycle in its contemporary history with another international success.
