Henry made the decision weeks after leading France to a silver medal finish at the Paris Olympics.
Arsenal and Barcelona legend Thierry Henry has unexpectedly stepped down as manager of the France Under-21 team. The decision comes just weeks after leading the side to a podium finish - winning silver medal at the Paris Olympics.
Henry was appointed in August 2023 and his contract was initially set to run until June 2025. However, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced on Monday that the former striker had decided to leave for "personal reasons."
Despite the disappointing loss to Spain in the Olympic final, Henry's tenure was seen as a success, with the FFF praising his professionalism and dedication.
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"On behalf of the FFF, I would like to thank Thierry Henry for all the work he has accomplished at the head of the Espoirs and Olympiques teams," FFF president Philippe Diallo said in a statement.
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Henry will lead France to face Spain in the final at Parc des Princes, at the same venue the country won the only Olympic gold medal in football in 1984.
"We obviously regret this decision because Thierry Henry was able to achieve the objectives that had been set for him by winning a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, 40 years after the Olympic medal in Los Angeles.
"Having followed him throughout this campaign, I was able to discover his great professionalism, his rigor and his love of the blue jersey. We wish him good luck for the rest of his career."
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France and Spain both overturned deficits to secure victories in their respective semi-final matches.
Meanwhile, Henry himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead his nation at the Olympic games. He said: "I would like to thank the FFF and President Philippe Diallo, who offered me this incredible opportunity.
"Winning the silver medal at the Olympic Games for my country will remain one of the greatest prides of my life. I am incredibly grateful to the Federation, the players, the staff and the supporters who allowed me to live a magical experience," he said.
Thierry Henry will continue his role as a pundit for CBS Sports, where he is expected to be a key figure in their coverage of the upcoming Champions League season.