The pressure is intensifying on Didier Deschamps as the French national team's manager, following their recent exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of Spain in the semifinals. Despite Deschamps' past triumphs, including leading France to World Cup glory in 2018, the recent downturn in performance has raised questions about his future.
Deschamps' current contract runs through to the end of the 2026 World Cup, an agreement that included an objective of reaching the semifinals in Germany. While the team met this goal, the manner of their exit and the quality of their play have not inspired confidence. France managed just one goal from open play throughout the tournament, a disappointing return given their wealth of attacking talent.
Deschamps Faces the Media
In the aftermath of the semifinal defeat, Deschamps was visibly frustrated during the post-match press conference. When questioned about his future, he reacted sharply: "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."
Performance Under Scrutiny
Deschamps' tenure, marked by the 2018 World Cup triumph, has now come under intense scrutiny. Despite achieving the goal stipulated in his contract's extension, the style and outcome of their play have left fans and analysts questioning if it's time for a change.
One player who has stood by Deschamps is Antoine Griezmann. The forward set a new national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships with his 36th tournament game, coming off the bench in the 62nd minute against Spain. Griezmann, speaking candidly about his own performances and future, offered insights into the team's dynamics: "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."
Looking Towards 2026
At 32, Griezmann is already contemplating his role in the next major tournament: "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]." His commitment to the national team is clear, and his longevity will be a crucial element as the squad rebuilds.
The support of the French football federation (FFF) will be critical for Deschamps moving forward. His ability to navigate the team's path to the semifinals has, for now, assured his position, but the FFF's backing will be essential as he seeks to revitalize the squad and address the weaknesses exposed during Euro 2024.
The Road Ahead
France's journey in international football remains a story of highs and lows, and Deschamps' legacy is sure to be a topic of intense debate. As the team prepares for the next round of challenges, including the 2026 World Cup, the focus will be on renewing tactics and rekindling the attacking prowess that once made them world champions.
For Didier Deschamps, the support of his players, particularly veterans like Griezmann, and the continued backing of the federation will be paramount in determining whether he can lead France to new heights or if a change in leadership is warranted. Only time will tell if the lessons learned from Euro 2024 can pave the way for future success.