Thierry Henry has announced his resignation as coach of the French U-21 national team. The 47-year-old, who only took over a year ago, led the Olympic team to silver this summer
“I would like to thank the FFF for giving me this incredible opportunity,” Henry said in a press release. “Winning the silver medal at the Olympic Games for my country will remain one of the proudest moments of my life,” affirmed the 1998 world champion. In the final, France had lost 5-3 to Spain after extra time in a spectacular match.
The exact reasons for Henry’s resignation remain unclear, but the former Arsenal professional hinted that personal reasons may have played a role. His contract originally ran until 2025 and the president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, expressed his understanding for Henry’s decision, even if he regretted it. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the coach had achieved his goals by winning the silver medal.
Henry made a successful start to the European Championship qualifiers with the U21s, winning four out of four games. Now the French Football Federation faces the challenge of finding a successor in time for the match against league leaders Slovenia in September. It is not yet clear who will follow in Henry’s footsteps.
