Ousmane Dembélé Backs Didier Deschamps Farewell Mission as France Target World Cup Glory

• Ousmane Dembélé says Didier Deschamps’ impending departure is motivating France rather than distracting the squad.
• France’s players are determined to end Deschamps’ 14-year reign with another World Cup final appearance.
• Dembélé believes several nations can win the tournament, insisting there will be “no favourites” once matches begin.

France winger Ousmane Dembélé has insisted Didier Deschamps’ decision to step down after the 2026 FIFA World Cup has strengthened Les Bleus’ determination to deliver a memorable farewell for one of the most successful coaches in international football.

Deschamps confirmed earlier this year that the tournament in North America will be his last in charge, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year spell that has included World Cup and Nations League triumphs, as well as multiple deep runs in major competitions.

Speaking ahead of France’s opening World Cup fixture, Dembélé said the squad’s focus remains firmly on the task ahead, but admitted there is an added desire to send Deschamps out on a high.

“We know it’s the last competition for the coach,” Dembélé said.

“He’s a very high-level coach who has achieved a lot with the French team. We’re very happy to have him, of course. We’ve already played a World Cup with him.

“His leaving isn’t really impacting our mentality in this tournament. We want to finish well with him by reaching the World Cup final.”

Deschamps took charge of France in 2012 and has overseen one of the most successful eras in the country’s football history. Under his leadership, France won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, lifted the UEFA Nations League in 2021, reached the Euro 2016 final, finished runners-up at the 2022 World Cup and advanced to the semifinals of Euro 2024.

His longevity and consistency have placed him among the most respected national team managers of the modern era.

Dembélé also highlighted the personal impact Deschamps has had on his career, praising the coach’s trust and support throughout his time with the national team.

“He’s a coach who has counted on each of these players in the French team,” Dembélé said.

“He sends us congratulations or motivates us after a match. He’s very important to me personally in my career.

“We’ll try to do well with him as a coach because he deserves it.”

France arrive at the tournament among the leading contenders for the trophy, although Dembélé warned against underestimating the strength of the competition.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward, who recently helped his club retain the Champions League title, believes several nations are capable of lifting the World Cup.

“There are many favourites,” Dembélé said.

“Argentina are the reigning world champions so obviously they are one of the favourites. Spain won Euro 2024. England, Portugal and Germany are also there.

“There are also very complicated teams like Brazil and Ecuador.

“There are favourites but when the matches start it’s 11 against 11. There are no more favourites. We’ll have to stay focused.”

France begin their World Cup campaign against Senegal at MetLife Stadium on June 16 before facing Iran and Norway in Group I.

For Deschamps, it is one final opportunity to add another chapter to an already glittering international career. For his players, it is a chance to repay the faith of the man who has guided France through more than a decade of success.