Thierry Henry has resigned as the coach of France’s Under-21 national soccer team, according to an announcement by the French Football Federation (FFF) on Monday. His decision to step down comes just days after the team’s loss to Spain in the Olympic final.
The FFF revealed that Henry, whose contract was set to run until June 2025, cited personal reasons for his departure. Henry, who was a key player in France’s 1998 World Cup victory and is the nation’s second-highest goalscorer, received widespread praise for his team’s Olympic performances.
Henry masterminded France’s march to the final as they defeated Argentina and Egypt along the way. They would ultimately lose 5-3 to Spain in extra time in the final.
What Henry said about his decision
Henry thanked the French Football Federation and president Philippe Diallo for the opportunity and said the Paris Olympics silver remain one of the proudest achievements of his life. The former Arsenal striker also said he was grateful to the federation, the players, staff and the fans for allowing him to live out the magical experience of coaching the side.
“I have to thank the FFF and Philippe Diallo [president of the FFF], who gave me this amazing opportunity,” Henry said. “Winning a silver medal at the Olympics for my country will remain one of the proudest achievements of my life.
“I am incredibly grateful to the Federation, the players, the staff and the supporters who allowed me to live out a magical experience.”
FFF president Diallo thanked Henry for his contributions and said that the federation is actively looking for a new manager ahead of the qualifiers for the U21 Euro 2025.
Henry has previously managed Monaco in Ligue 1 and the Montreal Impact in MLS. He also served as an assistant coach under Roberto Martinez during Martinez’s tenure with Belgium’s senior men’s national team.