The Pressure Mounts on Deschamps After Euro 2024 Semifinal Exit
In the aftermath of France's heartbreaking exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of Spain in the semifinals, scrutiny has intensified on manager Didier Deschamps. Despite previously leading France to World Cup glory in 2018, Deschamps now faces an uncertain future as the team struggled to find their footing throughout the tournament.
This tournament saw France managing just one goal from open play, a surprising outcome considering the roster's attacking prowess. Yet, it wasn’t just the lack of goals that brought Deschamps under fire but also the strategies and decisions that seemed to baffle both fans and critics.
Deschamps' contract, which extends through the end of the 2026 World Cup, included a specific objective: reaching the semifinals in Germany. Despite achieving this milestone, the lackluster performances have left many questioning whether he is the right person to lead France forward.
After the loss to Spain, Deschamps faced the media's hard questions. When asked about his future, he responded with clear 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."
Griezmann's Record and Future
Amidst the disappointment, there were moments of individual achievement. Antoine Griezmann set a new national record, making his 36th tournament appearance for France during the match against Spain. Griezmann has been a stalwart for the French national team, consistently showing his dedication and skill on the pitch.
Reflecting on the tournament, Griezmann's comments highlighted both his personal struggles and his unwavering commitment. "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."
Notably, Griezmann also made clear his desire to continue contributing to the national team, expressing a strong interest in participating in the 2026 World Cup. "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]," he stated, leaving little doubt about his ongoing commitment to the French side.
Support from the French Football Federation
For Deschamps, the support of the French football federation (FFF) will be critical in determining his future. While he has achieved the semifinal objective outlined in his contract, the general sense of underachievement at Euro 2024 places him in a precarious position. The FFF's stance, voiced through its president, will play a significant role in guiding the upcoming decisions.
The road to the 2026 World Cup offers an opportunity for reflection and rebuilding. Whether Deschamps will remain at the helm to steer the national team through this period is a question shrouded in uncertainty.
Deschamps' achievements cannot be overlooked, but the pressing demand for consistent excellence on the international stage leaves no room for complacency. French football is navigating a critical juncture, one where strategic decisions and the fostering of emerging talent will determine success in the coming years.
As fans and pundits eagerly await the next steps, the story of Didier Deschamps and his tenure with the French national team remains an evolving narrative, one with many chapters yet to be written.