The pressure is mounting on Didier Deschamps, the manager of the French national football team, following an unexpected exit from Euro 2024. Despite France's wealth of attacking talent, the team managed just one goal from open play throughout the tournament, ultimately succumbing to Spain in the semifinals.
The scrutiny surrounding Deschamps is heightened by the high expectations that come with his resume. Having led France to World Cup glory in 2018, his track record evidently sets a high bar. Additionally, the French football federation has set demanding objectives, including reaching the Euro 2024 semifinals, which Deschamps met. However, the question looms: Is meeting the minimum enough to secure his future?
Deschamps Under Fire
Post-match, Deschamps faced tough questions about his future. His response was a candid display of his frustration: "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' contract runs through the end of the 2026 World Cup, offering a modicum of job security, at least for now. The support of the French football federation will be crucial for his future with the team. His ability to navigate these turbulent waters will depend heavily on the federation's willingness to stand by him during these challenging times.
Griezmann’s Record and Commitment
Amidst the team's struggles, Antoine Griezmann marked a significant personal milestone. When he came off the bench in the 62nd minute of the semifinal against Spain, he set a new national record for most appearances in World Cups and European Championships, making his 36th tournament appearance. Griezmann remains a steadfast figure for the French national team, voicing his commitment to future endeavors. "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]," he affirmed, leaving no doubt about his desire to remain an integral part of the squad.
Reflecting on his performance and role in the tournament, Griezmann was candid. "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."
A Semifinal Achievement: Is It Enough?
Reaching the semifinals of Euro 2024 was one of the primary objectives stipulated in Deschamps' contract. Meeting this objective means that, at least on paper, he has fulfilled his contractual obligations. Yet, the underwhelming performance in terms of offensive productivity raises questions about the team's future trajectory under his leadership.
The French squad's inability to capitalize on their attacking prowess has become a focal point of criticism. The team’s lone goal from open play during the tournament starkly contrasts with the expected output given their depth of talent. This disconnect between potential and performance has fueled discussions about tactical missteps and the need for a possible reevaluation of strategy moving forward.
Ultimately, the future of Didier Deschamps with the national team hinges on a complex interplay of factors. The immediate emotional aftermath of the semifinal loss paints a picture of a team and manager under duress. However, the support of the French football federation will be pivotal in determining whether Deschamps can weather this storm and guide France through the 2026 World Cup cycle.
Conclusion
The narrative surrounding France's Euro 2024 campaign is not just about their semifinal exit; it's a reflection on leadership, team dynamics, and the resilience required to bounce back from disappointment. For Deschamps and his squad, the road ahead will be one of introspection and arduous effort. As the French football community processes this chapter, all eyes will remain on Deschamps to see whether he can orchestrate a resurgence at the helm of Les Bleus.