The intense scrutiny on France manager Didier Deschamps has intensified following the team’s exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of Spain in the semifinals. This development comes as a significant blow to Deschamps, who once saw the pinnacle of success when he led France to World Cup glory in 2018.
Deschamps’ tenure, which is secured through the end of the 2026 World Cup, has now become a topic of heated debate. Despite the team's wealth of attacking talent, France managed just one goal from open play during the tournament, raising questions about the effectiveness of Deschamps’ strategies. The French football federation had outlined reaching the semifinals as one of the objectives in his contract, a target that Deschamps met. As a result, his position, at least for now, remains secure.
The Semifinal Struggle
The semifinal match against Spain was a pivotal moment in the tournament, yet it ended in disappointment. The French squad, rich with talent, failed to capitalize on their offensive opportunities, a fact that will not sit well with the fans or the media. This lackluster performance has only added fuel to the fire of criticism aimed at Deschamps.
In the post-match press conference, Deschamps addressed the questions about his future with noticeable 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," he stated, clearly irritated by the relentless conjecture surrounding his position.
Griezmann’s Commitment
Amidst the swirling uncertainty, one constant remains Antoine Griezmann’s commitment to the national team. In the same match against Spain, Griezmann set a new national record for most appearances in World Cups and European Championships with his 36th tournament appearance. When he came off the bench in the 62nd minute, it was not just a tactical move, but a testament to his enduring importance to the team.
Griezmann's reflections on his journey in the tournament were as candid as they were insightful. "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," he revealed, highlighting the complex dynamics within the squad and his personal resilience.
Despite the setbacks, Griezmann is already looking toward the future. With a clear desire to contribute further, he unequivocally stated, "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]." His words serve as a rallying cry for a team and nation eager to reclaim their former glory.
The Crucial Role of the Federation
The French football federation’s support will be crucial for Deschamps as he navigates this challenging period. With his contract extending to 2026, the federation's backing could provide the stability needed for rebuilding and future success. The pressure, however, is unlikely to dissipate anytime soon, especially with the eyes of the football world firmly fixed on France's next move.
The coming months will be telling for Deschamps and his squad. As the dust settles on Euro 2024, the journey towards the 2026 World Cup begins. For Deschamps, Griezmann, and the team, the focus will be on evolution and adaptation, aiming to once again reach the celebrated heights of football achievement.