Didier Deschamps Confirms Saudi Pro League Approach And Denies Juventus, Brazil Links

France national team head coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed that he has been approached by the Saudi Pro League regarding a coaching role following the 2026 World Cup. The 55-year-old, who will step down after the tournament, also addressed circulating reports linking him to Juventus and the Brazil national team, labeling them “absolutely false.”

Deschamps Confirms Contact With Saudi Clubs

Deschamps revealed that discussions with a Saudi club have taken place, though he chose not to disclose the team’s name. Speaking to Telefoot, he said:

“I may have had some contact, not specifically with them. I’m not going to name names, but they know my situation.”

Despite speculation about a possible contract extension with France, Deschamps reiterated:

“That’s false, absolutely. From the moment I made a decision – and I won’t go back on it – I’ll be free after the scheduled deadlines, and I’m not ruling anything out.”

Juventus And Brazil Rumours Debunked

The former Marseille and Juventus manager firmly denied reports suggesting a return to Juventus, where he played and previously managed, as well as links to Brazil.

“False. Never say never, but I don’t see myself managing another nation. Given what the French national team…mean to me, I can’t imagine myself on the bench with another anthem,” Deschamps explained.

While ruling out other national teams, he remains open to club management opportunities, including a potential return to Paris Saint-Germain, though no concrete plans are in place.

Dembele Injury Saga And PSG Relations

Deschamps also addressed ongoing concerns over Ousmane Dembele’s injuries at PSG, following the winger’s early exit in the Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich. He stressed the importance of player welfare and careful collaboration between clubs and national teams.

“What happens at PSG is their business; I don’t have all the information. There have always been exchanges regarding tests and diagnoses. Of course, the interests of clubs and national teams aren’t the same. But there have always been exchanges regarding the tests and diagnoses. I’m not here to change the medical protocol.”

Deschamps emphasized that injury risks are inherent in football and aimed to avoid adding fuel to any ongoing disputes between PSG and Les Bleus.

Sports Market International Takeaway

As Didier Deschamps prepares to conclude a remarkable tenure with France, he leaves the door open for potential club opportunities abroad, including in the Saudi Pro League, while dismissing misleading reports linking him to Juventus or Brazil. His focus remains on guiding France through the 2026 World Cup while maintaining professionalism in managing player welfare and public narratives.

Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is at the center of internal tension at the Camp Nou after reports surfaced of a disciplinary clash with head coach Hansi Flick ahead of their crucial Champions League encounter with Paris Saint-Germain.

According to Cadena SER, Flick was ready to drop Yamal from the lineup due to issues with punctuality, only for sporting director Deco to intervene and reverse the decision — a move that allegedly undermined Flick’s authority within the dressing room.

Flick vs Yamal: A Clash Of Principles

The issue reportedly began when Yamal arrived late for a pre-match team meeting. Flick, known for his strict discipline and no-nonsense management style, immediately decided that the 18-year-old would be benched as punishment.

This is consistent with Flick’s past actions — the German tactician had previously sanctioned players like Jules Koundé, Raphinha, and Inaki Peña for similar infractions. However, the dynamic shifted when Deco stepped in, insisting that Yamal start due to the importance of the match.

The decision left Flick frustrated, with sources suggesting he felt his control over player discipline had been compromised. Yamal eventually played the full 90 minutes against PSG, but later suffered a groin injury that has since kept him sidelined.

Barcelona’s Growing Concern Over Yamal’s Focus

While Yamal remains one of Europe’s brightest young talents, Barcelona insiders are reportedly worried about his lifestyle and off-field discipline.

A club source told Cadena SER:

“There is some concern about Lamine’s day-to-day life. It’s not alarming, but we don’t like some of the things that have been happening with the player in recent months. We don’t like the way he’s been living and the life he’s been leading.”

Though the winger is often praised for his work ethic and early arrivals at training, his recent inconsistencies and off-field distractions have raised eyebrows within the club’s hierarchy.

Dressing Room Unease

Flick’s initial plan to enforce discipline — followed by Deco’s reversal — has also caused tension among the squad, with some players reportedly questioning why Yamal was treated differently from others who faced punishment for similar issues.

The episode highlights a delicate power balance between Barcelona’s sporting leadership and coaching staff, as well as the pressures of managing young stars thrust into the global spotlight.

For now, Yamal’s future remains bright, but Barcelona will be keen to ensure that talent is matched by professionalism — both on and off the pitch.

Stay tuned with Sports Market International, the best sports blog and hub for sports market stories, for exclusive insights and updates from around the world of football.

Super Eagles Captain William Troost-Ekong Has Opened Up About Nigeria’s Gritty 2-1 Victory Over The Crocodiles Of Lesotho In Friday Night’s World Cup Qualifier At The New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane.

The Defender, Who Calmly Converted A Penalty To Open The Scoring In The 55th Minute, Praised Lesotho For Their Resilient Performance. Substitute Jerome Adams Akor Later Doubled Nigeria’s Lead Ten Minutes From Time, Securing Three Vital Points For The Super Eagles.

In His Post-Match Press Conference, Troost-Ekong Acknowledged The Effort Of The Opponents, Saying, “Lesotho Played A Great Game. It Was Not Easy To Come Here And Win. I Understand Their Disappointment Because They Put Up A Good Fight.”

The Captain Also Highlighted The Pressure The Team Has Been Under Throughout The Qualifiers: “The Game Was Tough. The Pressure Has Been On Us Since March, Maybe Since The Start Of The Qualifiers.”

Looking Ahead, The Super Eagles Are Set To Face Benin Republic In A Crucial Final Group Match At The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. The Stakes Are High, With A Spot At The 2026 FIFA World Cup On The Line.

Troost-Ekong Remains Confident: “We Just Have To Focus On Ourselves. We Have A Team Of Guys Who Want To Do Better. We Have A Winning Mentality. This Game In Uyo Is A Final For Us, And We Will Give Everything.”

The Nigerian Captain’s Leadership And Determination Continue To Inspire The Squad As They Prepare For Another Intense Encounter. Fans Will Be Hoping The Super Eagles Rise To The Occasion And Secure Their Place On The Road To The World Cup.