Ivory Coast Elephants eye big move with Deschamps as top candidate

Elephants target Didier Deschamps for World Cup 2026 continuation

Ivory Coast's national side, known as the Elephants, sits 2nd in the World Cup standings with 6 points (2W-0D-1L) and a goal record of 4 scored, 2 conceded (+2). After the 1‑2 loss to Norway on 2026‑06‑30, the staff is eyeing a big move: hiring Didier Deschamps as head coach.

Why is Deschamps drawing attention from the federation?

Deschamps' name resurfaced after the Ivorian FA evaluated three profiles: Hervé Renard, Walid Regragui and World Cup‑winning Didier Deschamps. His experience, including the 2018 World Cup triumph, offers rare credibility. The salary estimate of €4.2 M per year, however, exceeds current capabilities, prompting the federation to consider investing in the youth academy to uncover the next gem.

What financial and tactical hurdles exist?

Deschamps' salary, far above the €150 000 monthly figure mentioned, poses a major challenge. Meanwhile, the attacking line-Kvara, Dembélé, Doué and Barcola-remains the summer market priority. Midfielders like Lee and Ramos have expressed a desire to leave, leaving a gap Deschamps would need to fill. The current staff, labeled a "clown" by some observers, struggles to harness the potential of players like Tolisso and Mata, already on the decline.

What could an eventual Deschamps appointment bring?

A coach of this stature could reshape the squad by emphasizing training and tactical discipline. If the federation agrees to fund the salary, the team could gain cohesion, especially after the recent setback against Norway. Otherwise, the search for a less costly profile capable of revitalizing the core will remain the focus, with an eye on young talents from Ivory Coast's development system.

What’s the next step for the Elephants?

The upcoming match, scheduled in two weeks, will give the side a chance to test new strategies. The staff must decide quickly whether to bet on Deschamps or continue developing young players. The decision will directly affect the group's trajectory in the World Cup's final phase, where every point matters for securing a knockout‑stage berth.