Thierry Henry has announced his decision to step down from his role as coach of the France under-21 football team, the French Football Federation (FFF) revealed on Monday.
The former France international made the decision after guiding the French under-23 side to a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Henry, who remains Arsenal’s all-time leading goalscorer, took charge of the French youth side last summer and was initially contracted until June 2025. However, according to the FFF, he has chosen to leave his position for “personal reasons.”
Under Henry’s leadership, Les Bleuets made a historic run to the final of the Olympic men’s football tournament, marking the first time France had reached the final since winning gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. Despite their impressive journey, the young French team fell to Spain 5-3 after extra time in a thrilling final.
Henry’s tenure was not without challenges. He was forced to make several squad changes before the tournament began due to the reluctance of certain clubs to release their players for the Games. Nonetheless, he successfully guided his team to a silver medal, cementing a memorable chapter in his coaching career.
In a statement released by the FFF, the 47-year-old Henry expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the national youth team.
“I would like to thank the FFF and President Philippe Diallo for giving me this incredible opportunity,” said Henry. “Winning an Olympic silver medal for my country will remain one of the proudest moments of my life. I’m incredibly grateful to the federation, the players, the staff, and the fans for giving me this magical experience.”
