Five Coaches from 2026 World Cup Now Searching for New Roles

Several prominent managers who led their teams during the 2026 World Cup have parted ways with their national squads. Big names in football coaching are now exploring fresh opportunities.

Didier Deschamps Ends France Tenure

Didier Deschamps concluded his 14-year spell as France’s head coach after narrowly missing out on a third straight World Cup final. The 57-year-old, who captained France in his playing days, secured the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Nations League while also guiding the team to runner-up finishes at Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup.

Deschamps has announced plans to take a break, partly to grieve the loss of his mother during the tournament. "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 said. Since 2012, he hasn’t coached at club level, but there’s speculation about future opportunities for him.

Julian Nagelsmann Leaves Germany

Despite expressing a desire to continue, Julian Nagelsmann has stepped down as Germany's manager following a surprising last-32 defeat to Paraguay. His World Cup performance triggered changes within the team’s leadership.

At just 38 years old—still younger than Lionel Messi—Nagelsmann carries extensive experience. He has managed eight Bundesliga seasons, captured a league title with Bayern Munich, and steered Germany through two major tournaments.

Roberto Martinez Steps Down from Portugal

Roberto Martinez resigned as Portugal’s head coach after a disappointing World Cup exit to Spain in the round of 16. His decade-long international coaching career spans Belgium and Portugal, though many believe his teams underperformed despite talented rosters.

"It’s the end of the cycle," Martinez reflected. "It’s important to have a new voice, a new leader. I take with myself the memories, and hope that Portugal has good memories in the three and a half years I was head coach of the team. It was the experience of my life." He added, "It had not been decided previously that I would leave after the tournament. I came with the goal to win the World Cup, and because I did not win, it does not make sense to continue."

Zlatko Dalic Parts Ways with Croatia

Zlatko Dalic ended his nine-year run as Croatia’s manager. Under his guidance, Croatia finished second at the 2018 World Cup and the 2023 UEFA Nations League and took third place at the 2022 World Cup.

Dalic’s club management background includes roles in Croatia, Albania, UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Given his recent successes, he could attract offers from top-tier European clubs.

Steve Clarke Exits Scotland Role

Steve Clarke decided to step down as Scotland’s manager after the 2026 World Cup. Despite criticism over Scotland’s performance in North America, it’s worth remembering that before Clarke’s seven-year tenure, the national team hadn’t qualified for a major tournament in 22 years.