Thierry Henry has stepped down from his position as coach of the France under-21 football team after leading the squad to a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced on Monday.
The Arsenal legend and all-time leading goalscorer took charge of the French youth team last summer with a contract running until June 2025 but decided to resign for “personal reasons,” according to the FFF.
Earlier in July, Henry guided Les Bleuets to their first Olympic men’s football final since they won gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. Despite a strong campaign, his young team lost 5-3 after extra time to Spain in the final, capping off a remarkable journey that had begun with several pre-tournament setbacks due to club refusals to release players for the Games.
“I would like to thank the FFF and President Philippe Diallo for this incredible opportunity,” said the 47-year-old Henry in an FFF statement. “Winning an Olympic silver medal for my country is one of the proudest moments of my life. I’m deeply grateful to the federation, the players, the staff, and the fans for giving me this magical experience.”
FFF President Philippe Diallo expressed his appreciation for Henry’s contributions as coach of both the Espoirs (under-21) and Olympic teams.
“We regret this decision, as Thierry Henry met the objectives set for him by securing a silver medal at the Olympic Games in Paris,” Diallo said. “Having followed him throughout this campaign, I witnessed his great professionalism, rigour, and love for the blue jersey.”
