Mounting Pressure on Deschamps Following France's Euro 2024 Exit
The pressure is intensifying on France manager Didier Deschamps after his squad's disappointing exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of Spain in the semifinals. The French team, despite their abundance of attacking talent, managed to score just one goal from open play throughout the tournament, raising questions about Deschamps' tactical approach and strategic decisions.
Deschamps, who famously led France to World Cup glory in 2018, now faces increased scrutiny as his contract with the French football federation runs through the end of the 2026 World Cup. The recent performance at Euro 2024 contrasts sharply with the heights of their World Cup triumph, and fans and pundits alike are starting to express doubts.
"You are terrible. Ask that question to the president [of the FFF], I have just come from losing a semifinal and you think that I have already [thought about that]? Me, I respect you, you should try to respect the people who have responsibility a little more as well. I say that in total calmness. What has happened happened -- I am here to respond to your questions but I am not going to respond to that today. You know very well the situation and you know what the president thinks -- so maybe you didn't have to ask me that question," Deschamps remarked, clearly frustrated by questions regarding his future.
The semifinal appearance in Germany was an objective specified in Deschamps' contract, and by reaching that milestone, his position remains secure for now. Nevertheless, the French football federation's (FFF) support will be pivotal for his continued tenure, especially in light of the team's lackluster offensive outputs despite having stars such as Kylian Mbappé and Karim Benzema at their disposal.
France’s Euro 2024 campaign might not have fulfilled the loftiest ambitions of their fervent supporters, but there were personal milestones reached along the way. Antoine Griezmann set a new national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships with his 36th tournament appearance when he came off the bench in the 62nd minute against Spain.
"I started badly. After that, I started to feel better and better, and I ended up on the bench. We'll come back. I tried to give my all with a lot of tactical and positional changes. You had to adapt all the time. Understanding [Deschamps' decision]? No, that's personal. But that's how it is, that's the life of a footballer. Others in the squad haven't played a minute so I'm not going to be the one to complain," Griezmann stated, reflecting on his personal journey during the tournament. His commitment to the national team remains steadfast, as he expressed his desire to compete in the 2026 World Cup with a simple yet compelling, "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]."
As the dust settles on Euro 2024, the focus inevitably shifts towards the future. Deschamps' proven track record adds a layer of complexity to the debate. The federation's decision to retain him might hinge not only on past glories but also on reassurances regarding adapting tactical approaches and addressing current deficiencies. The next few months will be critical for Deschamps as he balances between introspection and preparation for future challenges.
For now, the French football fraternity will be watching closely, hoping that their manager can recapture the magic of 2018. The road to redemption starts now, with a renewed focus on harnessing the undeniable talent within the squad and translating it into results on the pitch. Deschamps' future with Les Bleus might be under scrutiny, but his commitment to forging ahead remains as resolute as ever.