Henry Quits As France U21 Boss After Olympic Silver

Former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Thierry Henry has stepped down as manager of the France Under-21 team.

The 47-year-old’s decision comes just weeks after leading the side to a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, where they lost to Spain in extra time.

Henry took charge of the young French side in 2023 on a two-year contract that was due to expire after next year’s European Under-21 Championship.

“Winning the silver medal at the Olympic Games for my country will remain one of the greatest prides of my life,” said Henry in a statement.

READ ALSO: Olympics 2024 : Jean-Philippe Scores Brace As France Beat Egypt To Qualify For Final

“I am incredibly grateful to the federation, the players, the staff and the supporters who allowed me to live a magical experience.”

The France Football Federation said it “obviously regrets” Henry’s decision, adding that he had “achieved the objectives set for him”.

READ ALSO: Nursing Mothers In CRS Given Paid Extended Leave On World Breastfeeding Week.

Henry won four of his six matches in charge of the under-21s, also winning eight of his 11 games in charge of the Olympic team – which included strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Jean-Philippe Mateta as overage players.

However, the French footballer won 123 caps for France during his playing career, scoring 51 times.