Mounting Pressure on Deschamps Following France’s Euro 2024 Exit
The scrutiny on France manager Didier Deschamps is intensifying after the team's exit from Euro 2024, falling to Spain in the semifinals. This defeat has sparked concerns over Deschamps' future, despite his impressive track record, including leading France to World Cup glory in 2018.
The current contract for Deschamps runs through the end of the 2026 World Cup. However, the recent performance has raised questions about whether he remains the right man to guide the French national team forward. The team’s inability to capitalize on their wealth of attacking talent, managing just one goal from open play throughout the tournament, has not helped his position.
A Mixed Tournament Performance
Despite the disappointing end to their Euro 2024 campaign, it’s worth noting that reaching the semifinals was an objective in Deschamps' contract with the French football federation (FFF). This achievement means that, for now, his position remains secure.
Following the semifinal loss, Deschamps was visibly frustrated when asked about his future. "You are terrible. Ask that question to the president [of the FFF]," he responded. "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."
Record-breaking Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann set a new national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships with his 36th tournament appearance during the match against Spain. Coming off the bench in the 62nd minute, Griezmann's commitment to the national team remains unwavering. "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]," he exclaimed, making his intentions clear for the future.
Reflecting on his performance in Euro 2024, Griezmann said, "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."
Future Considerations
It’s evident that the support of the French football federation will be crucial to Deschamps' future with the team. With his contract running through 2026, the federation's backing will provide some stability as the team looks ahead to the next major tournaments. On the other hand, the pressure to deliver results will only increase, given the high expectations surrounding the French national team.
The road to redemption will require strategic adjustments and a renewed focus on fully utilizing the attacking prowess at Deschamps' disposal. For now, the French football community will have to wait and see how the federation, and Deschamps himself, respond to the mounting pressure and recent shortcomings.
As the team regroups, the spotlight remains firmly on Deschamps, who must navigate the challenges ahead to restore France's claim as one of the preeminent forces in international football.