Thierry Henry interviewed for France U21 manager role ahead of Olympics
According to Mohamed Toubache, a virtual meeting between the French FA and Thierry Henry took place on Monday, reportedly discussing the potential role of Henry as the next France Espoirs (U21) National Team manager. The French Minister of Sports is reportedly pushing hard for Henry, whilst Jocelyn Gourvennec is a back-up option for Les Bleuets.
A potential nomination of Thierry Henry as France U21 manager faces a number of obstacles: the former Arsenal striker would have to give up several advertising and TV contracts. A Henry appointment could also interfere with any potential role for Zinedine Zidane with the senior national set-up. Mohamed Toubache reports that if Henry works well with the U21 squad, then there is no chance that Zidane succeeds Didier Deschamps as France manager.
Former Bordeaux man Gourvennec has reportedly impressed the most during the interview stage, and would be in line for the role if a move for Henry fails to emerge.
Sylvian Ripoili was dismissed from the position of France U21 manager following a disappointing campaign at the U21 Euros. With just a year remaining until the Paris Olympics, where France is expected to perform well, the decision about who will lead the young talents becomes even more critical. This is especially considering that Kylian Mbappé could turn out forles Bleuets at Paris 2024.
George Boxall | GFFN
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