Mbappé's emotional goodbye to Deschamps ahead of England final

Kylian Mbappé posted an emotional farewell to Didier Deschamps on social media ahead of France’s World Cup consolation final against England, marking the French coach’s last match in charge after fourteen years. The message arrived as the team prepares for Saturday evening’s decisive game. Deschamps is scheduled to lead France on Saturday evening for what will be his final appearance as national team manager. He has been in the role since 2012. "Today is your last dance," Mbappé wrote at the start of his post. He added that Deschamps had given the squad so much over the years. "You have given us so much. We should have given you a better ending, but we fell short. Putting into words what you have meant in fourteen years is extremely difficult. You have been one of the main architects of the revival of this team. People have not always valued your greatness, but time and history will." The tribute highlighted Deschamps’ influence on the squad’s resurgence.

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"Thank you for giving me the chance to represent my country for many years on the biggest stage. I feel privileged to have stood beside one of the greatest legends of our country. I will cherish the great memories of everything we have experienced and achieved together. I wish you all the best with your new adventure and thank you again for everything you have meant for this shirt, which means so much for all of us." The personal thanks underscored Mbappé’s respect for the coach’s legacy. During his tenure, Les Bleus won the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League, and reached the finals of the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2016. These honours cemented Deschamps as one of France’s most successful managers.

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After the consolation final against England, Deschamps will hand over the reins to his successor Zinédine Zidane, ending a fourteen‑year era. Zidane will take charge as France prepares for future tournaments. The transition marks a new chapter for the French national side as it looks ahead beyond the World Cup.