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Didier Deschamps, the head coach of the France national football team, will be absent from their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I encounter against Norway in the United States following the death of his mother. Assistant coach Guy Stephan will take charge of Les Bleus, who have already advanced to the Round of 32. The result of Friday’s match will determine who tops the group, adding an emotional dimension to what is expected to be Deschamps’ final tournament as France manager.

FFF confirms Deschamps’ departure from World Cup base

The French Football Federation (FFF) announced that Deschamps has left the team’s base camp in the United States to return to France after the passing of his mother. The FFF issued an official statement confirming the development.

The statement read: “The national team coach experienced the sorrow, this Tuesday morning, of learning about the death of his mother. He will return to France to attend her funeral. In this deeply painful time, we wish him and his family immense strength and assure them of the full support of everyone within the Federation.” Assistant coach Guy Stephan will temporarily lead the squad.

Stephan to guide France in Group I showdown with Norway

France have had to quickly adjust their coaching setup ahead of their pivotal final Group I fixture against Norway. The FFF clarified that, in coordination with Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, who is currently at the France team’s World Cup base in the United States, Deschamps has formally entrusted his assistant Guy Stephan with the responsibility of leading the team until his return. Both France and Norway have accumulated six points each, meaning the winner of Friday’s clash will finish atop the group. However, France have already confirmed their place in the Round of 32.

Deschamps confirms he will step down after the 2026 World Cup

Prior to his departure, it had already been confirmed that Deschamps would end his tenure as France’s manager following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The 58-year-old coach stated that his managerial journey, which began in 2012, will conclude this summer. He expressed that he has made up his mind and feels it is the right time to step aside after dedicating himself fully to keeping France among the world’s elite footballing nations.

During his exceptional tenure, Deschamps has overseen 181 matches, securing 118 victories, 32 draws, and 31 defeats. Under his leadership, France captured the 2018 FIFA World Cup title and triumphed in the 2021 UEFA Nations League.

What lies ahead for Les Bleus?

Guy Stephan will now manage the French side against Norway on Friday as they aim to finish first in Group I. It remains uncertain when Deschamps will return to the United States to resume his duties for the Round of 32. The squad will look to honour their long-serving coach by continuing their pursuit of another World Cup title in his absence.