Kylian Mbappé, the star forward for France, has expressed his hopes that Didier Deschamps won’t become the coach of Italy, stating, “He belongs to us.”
In an interview with French media outlet M6, the Real Madrid player discussed the future of Les Blues coach Deschamps, who has been at the helm of the France national team since 2012 and led them to victory in the 2018 World Cup.
It has been confirmed that Deschamps will leave his position as head coach of the French national team following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.
Mbappé: Deschamps is Part of France
Kylian Mbappé and goalkeeper Mike Maignan share a moment before the UEFA Nations League Group A2 match between France and Italy at Parc des Princes in Paris on September 6, 2024. (Photo by STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN / AFP)
“I see him smiling, and he’s also more flexible now,” Mbappé remarked via Gazzetta. “In the past, he seemed tougher, but he has the ability to adapt to new generations.”
“That’s not easy. Yet he has always maintained his message. We’re aiming to honor his presence by winning in the way he prefers.”
“However, I truly hope he doesn’t take the reins of any other national teams,” Mbappé added.
Didier Deschamps showing his reaction during the UEFA Nations League Group A2 match between France and Italy at Parc des Princes on September 6, 2024. (Photo by Franck FIFE / AFP)
Mbappé noted, “I’ve seen reports suggesting he might coach Italy. That would be disappointing. Didier is French; he belongs to us.”
Earlier in May, Deschamps had not ruled out the possibility of becoming Italy’s head coach, stating he would be “available” after the World Cup.
Italy is set to appoint a new head coach after the FIGC Presidential elections on June 22, 2026.
Despite his resignation to coach the Saudi Arabia national team in 2023, Roberto Mancini remains the leading candidate for the role.