Didier Deschamps has revealed that he turned down the opportunity to become manager of Liverpool over the summer in order to stick with Marseille.
The Frenchman admits that the Anfield outfit approached him regarding the possibility of replacing Rafa Benitez, who left the club at the end of last season.
The former French international was one of a number of candidates identified by the Reds, as they sought to steady the ship following a turbulent 2009-10 campaign.
The former France captain led Marseille to the Ligue 1 title last season, and took Monaco to the 2004 UEFA Champions League final, underlining his credentials.
However, having only taken the reins at Stade Velodrome in 2009, Deschamps felt he was unable to turn his back on a club he represented as a player.
“I was very proud a club like Liverpool were interested in me,” he said. “But the timing was not good.
“I was engaged with Marseille, the players and the fans, and I could not leave them two days before the restart for pre-season.
“I was extremely pleased and happy but I decided to stay and continue my adventure with Marseille.”
Deschamps insists the interest from Liverpool was firm and has revealed that he went as far as holding talks with the Premier League side.
“We had a long discussion,” he said.
