France manager Didier Deschamps will not be on the touchline for Friday's World Cup clash against Norway after his mother died on Tuesday morning.
The 57-year-old received the devastating news at France's base camp in the United States and immediately flew back to his native France to mourn and attend her funeral with his family. He will miss not only the final Group I match in Boston, Massachusetts, but also all remaining training sessions ahead of the high-profile fixture.
“France manager Didier Deschamps missed Norway World Cup match after his mother died on Tuesday morning.”
In Deschamps' absence, long-serving assistant coach Guy Stephan has been officially entrusted with leading the squad. The French Football Federation confirmed the appointment, made in full agreement with FFF president Philippe Diallo, and released a public statement offering their complete support to the grieving manager and his family during this incredibly painful moment.
The timing is particularly difficult given the stakes: France top Group I and a win against Norway would secure top spot. Stephan will take charge of a side that includes key players, though Norway will be without Erling Haaland.
Deschamps, who led France to World Cup glory in 2018, now faces the personal loss of his mother while his team fights for progress on the pitch. The FFF statement publicly wished the coach and his family support as they navigate this heartbreaking period.