Kylian Mbappe says France failed Didier Deschamps at 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of coach's final match in bronze final against England

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Kylian Mbappe has admitted France failed to provide Didier Deschamps with the perfect send-off to his illustrious career as head coach of the national team, paying an emotional tribute to the outgoing manager ahead of the third-place play-off against England in Miami on Saturday.

Deschamps insists bronze final with England 'not a friendly'

Video credit: SNTV

France's hopes of winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end on Tuesday following their semi-final defeat to Spain.

As Les Bleus prepare to face Thomas Tuchel's side on Saturday for the bronze medal, Mbappe reflected on the end of an era for French football, acknowledging that Deschamps deserved a more fitting conclusion to his 14-year tenure in charge of the two-time world champions.

The 57-year-old manager leaves behind a remarkable legacy after a decorated period in charge of France, guiding Les Bleus to World Cup glory in 2018 and leading them back to the final four years later in Qatar where they lost on penalties to Argentina.

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Mbappe shared a message on X ahead of the meeting with England, honouring a manager he credits with helping shape his international career.

"Today is your last dance," the Real Madrid forward wrote. "You have given us so much. We should have offered you a better ending, but we failed.

"Putting into words what you have brought for 14 years is very difficult, as you have been a major player in the revival of this team. People have not always appreciated your greatness, but time and history will.

"Thank you for giving me the chance and opportunity to represent my country on the biggest stage for so many years. I feel privileged to have been able to be with one of our country's greatest legends, and I have nothing but great memories of all that we have experienced and accomplished together.

"I wish you all the best in your new adventure, and thank you again for everything you have brought to this jersey that means so much to us."

Deschamps' coaching career with France began with a goalless draw against Uruguay in a friendly in August 2012. Much has happened since that night in Le Havre, with the former midfielder transforming the national team into one of international football's most consistent performers.

As well as World Cup glory, he also led his side to success in the UEFA Nations League in 2021 and oversaw the emergence of a new generation of French talent, with Mbappe becoming the centrepiece of the team's attack.

Deschamps is set to become the coach to have managed the most matches in World Cup history against England, having equalled the record previously set by Germany’s Helmut Schon during the defeat to Spain.

He will reportedly be replaced by former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane after the tournament.

For Mbappe, the France captain is in line to feature in the 22nd World Cup match of his career against England, thereby extending his record as the Frenchman with the most appearances in the tournament's history.

Deschamps: I don't want anybody to cry

Deschamps' connection with the tournament runs far deeper than his achievements on the touchline.

He was captain when France lifted their first World Cup on home soil in 1998, completing a unique journey from national-team leader to the man responsible for restoring the country to football's summit.

France entered this year's World Cup among the favourites to claim a third title in their history, but their hopes of reaching another final were ended by European champions Spain, who face Argentina in Sunday's final.

Deschamps questions 'level' of referee after France's semi-final loss to Spain

Video credit: SNTV

Speaking ahead of the encounter with England, Mbappe's new Madrid team-mate Ibrahima Konate also paid tribute to Deschamps, saying: "I would like to thank him, his staff and everyone who has supported him throughout his long journey with the French national team, because it's been a long road.

"He has brought so much joy to the French people. It's true, there have also been some disappointments along the way, but we mustn't forget all the happiness he's given us."

The third-place play-off against England will carry significance beyond the result, representing a final opportunity for Deschamps' players to honour a manager who has delivered some of the greatest moments in French football history.

Looking ahead to the bronze medal match, Deschamps expressed a lack of enthusiasm at having to play the fixture, but added: "In my head, I know that it is my last match. I don't want anybody to cry. The end is near, but life goes on.

Watch: Contrasting moods as Spain and France leave Dallas Stadium following World Cup semi-final

Video credit: SNTV

"I know I'll miss the French team. For 15 years [he was appointed in 2012], I had the privilege of experiencing moments that were magical, and others that were difficult. I'm a positive person, and I know things will be good, too. It's the best thing that ever happened to me.

"It took up 25 years of my life and left a lasting mark. Unforgettable memories remain. But the most important thing is always what lies ahead.

"We are disappointed because we had a lot of ambition for this competition. We must accept the loss, and we now have this game around the corner, and then we will go on holiday - we all need it."

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