Saudi Arabia approach France manager Didier Deschamps over post-2026 project
According to Sacha Tavolieri, representatives of the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) have made initial contact with the entourage of France manager Didier Deschamps over a potential move to Saudi Arabia after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While the approach remains at a very early stage, the intent behind the move is clear: the Saudi football authorities are keen to gauge Deschamps' openness to managing in the Saudi Pro League once his time in charge of Les Bleus comes to an end.
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Deschamps has been in charge of the French national team since 2012, leading them to a World Cup title in 2018 and a runners-up finish in 2022. His current contract with the FFF runs until the end of the 2026 tournament in the United States, and he has publicly maintained his full commitment to the national team project until the end of that contract.
Sources close to the manager, however, have acknowledged that they were flattered by the Saudi interest, even if it is still 'too early' to seriously engage in talks.
The Frenchman announced in February that he won't be renewing his contract with Les Bleus after the 2026 World Cup, departing from his job held after 14 years.
GFFN | George Boxall
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