PARIS: Thierry Henry has decided to step down from his role as coach of the France under-21 football team, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced on Monday.

Former France international Henry made the decision after guiding the under-23 side to a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The all-time leading goalscorer for Premier League giants Arsenal took over as coach of the French youth side last summer and was under contract until June 2025 but decided to step away for “personal reasons”, according to the FFF.“I would like to thank the FFF and President Philippe Diallo for giving me this incredible opportunity,” said Henry, 47, in an FFF statement.

“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.”

Published in Dawn, August 20th, 2024