Former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Thierry Henry has stepped down from his role as manager of the France Under-21s team following their impressive performance, resulting in a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Expected to be contenders on their home soil, the French team made it to the final of the Games earlier this month, only to suffer a devastating 5-3 defeat to Spain in extra time.
Henry’s squad displayed remarkable determination by coming back from a 3-1 deficit to equalize the match at 3-3. However, two additional goals from Spain’s forward Sergio Camello secured Olympic glory for La Roja.
Nonetheless, the silver medal represents France’s best achievement in the men’s football tournament since 1984 when they claimed gold. It is also their third podium finish overall, having previously finished second in 1900.
Initially, Henry was set to continue leading the France Under-21s until the conclusion of next year’s European Championships. However, on Monday afternoon, the French Football Federation announced that the 47-year-old has resigned from his position for personal reasons.
Speaking to the FFF website, Henry described winning the silver medal at the 2024 Olympics as one of the most significant moments in his life. He also reflected on his time as the coach, calling it a “magical” experience. He expressed his gratitude to the FFF and President Philippe Diallo for giving him the incredible opportunity.
President Diallo of the FFF expressed his regret over Henry’s decision to step down from his position. He praised Henry for his dedication and love for the French national team, acknowledging his hard work and commitment. On behalf of the FFF, Diallo thanked Thierry Henry for his accomplishments as the coach of the Espoirs and Olympiques teams.
“We deeply regret this decision as Thierry Henry has successfully accomplished the objectives assigned to him by winning a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, four decades after the Olympic medal in Los Angeles.
Throughout this campaign, I have closely observed his remarkable professionalism, dedication, and passion for representing the national team. We extend our best wishes for his future endeavours.”
Henry has also held managerial positions at Monaco and Montreal, in addition to working as an assistant to Roberto Martinez for the Belgium team during Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup.
Being Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer, Henry has led France to three victories in their first four qualifying matches for Euro 2025. They currently occupy the second position in Group H, behind Slovenia who have played one more game.
