Mounting Pressure on Deschamps Following France's Euro 2024 Semifinal Exit
The pressure is building on France manager Didier Deschamps after his team’s exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of Spain in a tightly contested semifinal. The defeat has sparked debate over Deschamps' future with Les Bleus, despite his storied history with the national team.
Deschamps led France to World Cup glory in 2018, a triumph that remains a proud moment for French football. His current contract extends through the end of the 2026 World Cup, and securing a semifinal appearance in Germany was stipulated in his contract with the French football federation (FFF) as one of his objectives. With that goal achieved, for now, his position remains secure.
France's lack of offensive prowess throughout the tournament has, however, been a point of concern. The team managed just one goal from open play, a dismal return considering the wealth of attacking talent at Deschamps' disposal. This inefficiency in front of goal has led to scrutiny and critics calling for a reevaluation of Deschamps' tactics.
“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 responded vigorously when asked about his future immediately after the loss to Spain.
One of the few bright spots for France during the tournament was Antoine Griezmann, who set a new national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships with his 36th tournament appearance. Griezmann, who came off the bench in the 62nd minute against Spain, has shown unwavering commitment to the national team.
“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 reflected on his performance and his role in the squad.
Griezmann also made it clear that he still has ambitions to represent France in the future, expressing his desire to play in the 2026 World Cup: “Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026].”
The French football federation's support will be crucial in determining Deschamps' fate. With a contract running through another major tournament cycle, the FFF's backing could provide the stability Deschamps needs to strategize for future success. The federation's faith in their manager, juxtaposed with the underwhelming offensive output at Euro 2024, presents a complex scenario for French football moving forward.
As Deschamps reflects on the campaign and looks towards future objectives, the emphasis will undoubtedly be on converting their attacking potential into tangible results. France boasts a rich lineage of footballing talent, and harnessing it effectively will be key to overcoming recent disappointments.
For now, Deschamps survives, buoyed by an objective met but shadowed by expectations unfulfilled. The narrative of his tenure with France remains one of highs and lows, an ongoing saga that continues to captivate the footballing world.