France boss Didier Deschamps flies home from World Cup after death of his mum
Didier Deschamps will miss France’s World Cup clash with Norway to attend his mother’s funeral.
The national team boss will leave Les Bleus’ camp to return to France following her death.
Deschamps’ assistant Guy Stephan will take charge of their group I match against Norway on Friday.
The two sides meet at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts to decide top spot.
Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm, with live commentary on talkSPORT.
Stephan has served as number two throughout Deschamps’ 14 years in charge of the national team.
The manager will also be absent from training in the build-up to the match.
France statement
In a statement, the French Football Federation said: “The national team coach was deeply saddened to learn this morning of the passing of his mother.
“In agreement with Philippe Diallo, President of the French Football Federation, who is present at the French national team’s training camp, Didier Deschamps has entrusted his assistant, Guy Stephan, with the responsibility of leading the squad until his return.
“During this extremely painful time, we ask for your utmost respect and restraint.”
France have already booked their place in the knockout stage thanks to wins over Senegal and Iraq.
A draw with Norway would confirm their progression as group winners on goal difference.
The 2018 winners began their campaign with a 3-1 win over Senegal last week.
They followed up the victory by beating Iraq 3-0 on Monday despite thunderstorms delaying the match by over two hours.
Deschamps has been in charge of the national team since 2012, but will leave his role after this summer’s World Cup.
Zinedine Zidane is expected to succeed his former team-mate in the dugout.
During his tenure, he has guided France to successive finals at the last two editions of the tournament.
However, they were beaten on penalties by Argentina four years ago after their triumph in 2018.
France also reached the final of Euro 2016 on home soil under Deschamps.
As a player, the former midfielder captained the side to glory at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000.
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