Foxborough, United States: France head coach Didier Deschamps will miss his team’s final FIFA World Cup Group I match against Norway after the death of his mother.
The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed on Tuesday that the 57-year-old coach had returned to France following the tragic news in order to attend the funeral.
“Didier Deschamps will not be able to be on the bench on Friday for the final Group I game,” the federation said in a statement.
“The coach had the painful experience this morning of learning of the death of his mother. He will return to France to attend the funeral.”
Assistant coach Guy Stephan will take charge of Les Bleus during Deschamps’ absence before the France manager rejoins the squad later in the tournament.
The development comes at a time when France have already secured qualification for the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 following victories in their opening two group matches.
Deschamps’ side began their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal before defeating Iraq 3-0 in a match that was delayed by two hours because of adverse weather conditions.
Friday’s fixture against Norway in Foxborough, Massachusetts, will determine which team finishes top of Group I heading into the knockout phase.
The tournament marks Deschamps’ final major competition as France manager after he previously announced his intention to step down at the end of the World Cup.
During his 14-year tenure, Deschamps has established himself as one of the most successful coaches in French football history.
He guided France to World Cup glory in Russia in 2018 and led the team to the 2022 FIFA World Cup final in Qatar, where they narrowly lost to Argentina on penalties.
His achievements extend beyond coaching.
As a player, Deschamps captained France to victory at the 1998 FIFA World Cup on home soil before helping Les Bleus win the UEFA European Championship in 2000.
The latest personal tragedy comes as France continue their pursuit of a third FIFA World Cup title, with Guy Stephan expected to oversee preparations for the crucial encounter against Norway.
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