The pressure is mounting on France's manager Didier Deschamps following his team's exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of Spain in the semifinals. Despite having managed to lead France to World Cup glory in 2018, Deschamps now finds himself in a precarious position.
Deschamps' contract with the French football federation runs through the end of the 2026 World Cup, and reaching the semifinals in Germany was an objective outlined in that agreement. Although France's journey to the semifinals was in line with this expectation, their overall performance left much to be desired. The team managed just one goal from open play throughout the tournament, despite boasting a lineup full of attacking talent.
Deschamps, visibly frustrated by questions about his future, made it clear that now was not the time for such discussions. "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," said Deschamps, holding firm amidst the scrutiny.
Antoine Griezmann, who set a new national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships with his 36th tournament appearance, shared his own reflections on the performance and his role within the team. Griezmann came off the bench in the 62nd minute against Spain, and while his influence was notable, it wasn't enough to turn the tide for France.
"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," Griezmann admitted, addressing the tactical fluidity and the challenges posed by the tournament.
Despite the setback, Griezmann was unequivocal about his future ambitions with the national team, expressing a strong desire to play in the 2026 World Cup. "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]," he declared, reinforcing his commitment and optimism for the future.
The support from the French football federation (FFF) will be essential for Deschamps as he navigates this turbulent period. While reaching the semifinals means that Deschamps' position remains secure for now, the overarching discontent with the team's performance suggests that both Deschamps and the FFF have significant work ahead to realign and strengthen the squad.
France's journey in Euro 2024 might have come to a premature end, but the focus now shifts to rebuilding and strategizing for future successes. With key players like Griezmann showing unwavering dedication and Deschamps maintaining his composure under pressure, the period leading up to the 2026 World Cup will be crucial. The French national team has a legacy to uphold, and as the dust settles on their Euro 2024 campaign, the collective effort to revive and rejuvenate the squad will be paramount.