Pressure Mounts on Deschamps After France's Euro 2024 Exit
The curtain has fallen on France's Euro 2024 campaign, and with it, the pressure on manager Didier Deschamps intensifies. Despite a semifinal appearance, the 1-0 loss to Spain highlighted several underlying issues within the French squad, raising questions about Deschamps' future at the helm.
Deschamps, who previously steered France to World Cup glory in 2018, is now under scrutiny as his team struggled to find their rhythm throughout the tournament. France managed just one goal from open play, a concern given the abundant attacking talent at Deschamps' disposal. The fallout has been palpable, with fans and pundits alike questioning the squad’s tactical setup and execution.
Contractual Security
Amid the criticisms, Deschamps' position remains somewhat secure, at least for now. The semifinal appearance in Germany fulfilled an objective outlined in his contract with the French football federation (FFF). His contract, extending through the end of the 2026 World Cup, ostensibly buys him some time. However, the FFF's support will be instrumental in determining his long-term future.
After the match, Deschamps was visibly frustrated when a reporter brought up his job security. “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 retorted.
Griezmann's Record-Breaking Appearance
Amidst the disappointment, there was a bright spot for France as Antoine Griezmann etched his name into the history books. Griezmann made his 36th tournament appearance, setting a new national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships. His introduction in the 62nd minute against Spain added a sliver of hope, but it wasn't enough to change the outcome.
Griezmann was candid about his performance and the overall team dynamics. “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 remarked.
Looking Forward
The French star also cleared any doubts about his commitment to the national team, expressing his aspirations for the future. “Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026],” Griezmann said confidently. His enthusiasm and dedication could be pivotal as France seeks to rebuild and refocus ahead of upcoming tournaments.
While Deschamps' track record, including the 2018 World Cup win, may afford him some patience, the current climate around the team is one of urgency and demand for better results. Answering these calls will be no small task, with the next major milestone being the 2026 World Cup. For Deschamps and his squad, the road to redemption begins now, with the weight of expectations resting heavily on their shoulders.
In the meantime, the French football community will watch closely, speculating on potential changes and hopeful that Deschamps can steer the team back to its winning ways. The clock is ticking, and Deschamps knows better than anyone the transient nature of the managerial profession in football.