Deschamps leaves Marseille

Didier Deschamps: Has left his post as Marseille coach and is tipped to take charge of France

Marseille have confirmed Didier Deschamps has left his position as coach, paving the way for him to take charge of the France national team.

Deschamps has spent the past three seasons at the Marseille helm and he captured the Ligue 1 title during his first year as coach.

Only last week, Marseille denied reports that the 43-year-old was set to leave the club after he was linked with the Tottenham Hotspur vacancy.

However, despite Deschamps having two years left on his contract at Stade Velodrome, the club have announced a parting of the ways.

Desire to leave

"Didier Deschamps was received on May 23 by club officials to prepare for the 2012-2013 season," read a statement on the club's official website.

"Didier Deschamps stated his desire to leave OM and the terms of his departure were considered.

"In the days that followed, Mr Didier Deschamps repeatedly confirmed that he was and remained the coach of OM.

"Olympique de Marseille and Didier Deschamps have finally decided by mutual agreement not to continue working for the 2012-2013 season.

"Olympique de Marseille thank Didier Deschamps for his work for the team for three years and wish him good luck for the future.

"Didier Deschamps thanks Olympique de Marseille for their support throughout these last three seasons."

The French FA confirmed at the weekend that Laurent Blanc would not be staying on as France coach after his two-year contract expired.

Deschamps, who made 103 appearances for France and won the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championship, was quickly installed as the firm favourite to replace Blanc.