Five Coaches from the 2026 World Cup Now Seeking New Positions

Several coaches who led teams at the 2026 World Cup have stepped down from their roles, leaving some well-known names looking for fresh opportunities in football management.

Didier Deschamps

After 14 years at the helm of France’s national team, Didier Deschamps has ended his tenure. His squad came close to making a third straight World Cup final but fell short. The former captain guided France to the 2018 World Cup title and the 2021 UEFA Nations League win, while also finishing as runners-up at Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup.

Now 57, he plans to take a break and spend time with family, especially after the personal loss of his mother during the tournament. Deschamps said, "I’ll go on vacation to spend time with my loved ones. We’ve expended a lot of energy, and what happened in my personal life—I wouldn’t wish that on anyone." He hasn’t managed a club side since 2012 but could attract offers given his track record.

Julian Nagelsmann

The German coach Julian Nagelsmann parted ways with the national team following an unexpected last-32 exit against Paraguay, despite expressing a desire to continue. At just 38, younger than Lionel Messi, Nagelsmann already boasts eight Bundesliga seasons, a league title with Bayern Munich, and leadership at two major tournaments for Germany.

Roberto Martinez

Roberto Martinez resigned as Portugal’s manager after a disappointing World Cup campaign where Portugal lost to Spain in the round of 16. Having spent ten years in international management with Belgium and Portugal, many feel he underachieved despite managing talented squads.

Martinez reflected, "It’s the end of the cycle. It’s important to have a new voice, a new leader. I take with me the memories and hope Portugal has good memories from my three and a half years as head coach. It was the experience of my life. I came with the goal to win the World Cup, and since I didn’t, it doesn’t make sense to continue."

Zlatko Dalic

Zlatko Dalic stepped down after nine years leading Croatia. His tenure featured runner-up finishes at the 2018 World Cup and 2023 UEFA Nations League, plus a third-place finish at the 2022 World Cup. With club coaching experience in Croatia, Albania, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, Dalic might attract interest from clubs in top-five European leagues based on his recent success.

Steve Clarke

Scotland’s Steve Clarke decided to leave after the 2026 World Cup. Although his team faced criticism for its performance in North America, Clarke had helped Scotland qualify for a major tournament for the first time in 28 years, ending a long drought before his seven-year spell.