Kylian Mbappe has urged Didier Deschamps to conclude his international coaching journey on a triumphant note rather than take charge of another national side following the 2026 World Cup. The France captain openly acknowledged that he is attempting to influence his manager’s future choices, calling a potential move to Italy “terrible” as Les Bleus gear up for one last campaign under their long-serving coach.

Deschamps prepares for his final World Cup

As France get ready for their 2026 World Cup campaign in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, attention is increasingly turning to what will be the end of a remarkable era. Deschamps, who has guided the French national team for 14 years, is expected to step down after the tournament concludes. Mbappe is determined that the 57-year-old manager receives the fitting farewell his decorated career deserves.

Pressure on Deschamps regarding his future

Even with his departure from the French setup drawing closer, Deschamps has remained tight-lipped about his long-term ambitions. He has repeatedly stated that he is keeping all options open, whether that means returning to club management or taking charge of another national team.

However, Mbappe is firmly against the idea of seeing his mentor in charge of another side, particularly a rival nation. The Paris Saint-Germain star admitted he has been outspoken among teammates about wanting to influence Deschamps’ next move.

Speaking to M6, Mbappe said: “The best way to pay tribute to him is to win because he loves to win. We’re going to make sure he has the best of the recent World Cups. Hopefully, it will be his last because I hope he doesn’t coach another team.”

Mbappe further added that he is doing his best to sway the coach’s decision, saying: “I’m putting pressure on him.”

The ‘terrible’ prospect of Italy

Rumours have long linked Deschamps with the Italy national team job, largely due to his strong ties with the country from his days as both player and manager at Juventus. With the Azzurri aiming to rebuild after a turbulent period that saw them miss multiple World Cups, Deschamps’ experience and success make him an appealing candidate for the four-time world champions. Mbappe, however, made it clear that he strongly opposes such a move.

When asked about speculation connecting Deschamps to the Italian role, Mbappe did not hold back his feelings. “They said Italy; that would be terrible,” the France captain commented bluntly.

One last push for World Cup glory

For now, both Mbappe and Deschamps remain fully focused on France’s 2026 World Cup mission. After narrowly missing out in the 2022 final, Les Bleus are determined to reclaim the world title and give their departing coach the perfect send-off. The 2026 edition will mark the final chapter of Deschamps’ tenure with France, and before any decision is made on his next step, he faces the challenge of leading his squad through one final campaign in search of ultimate success.

France will begin their World Cup journey against Senegal in their Group I opener on June 16. They will then face Iraq on June 22 and complete their group stage fixtures against Norway on June 26.

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