The pressure continues to build on France manager Didier Deschamps following his team's exit from Euro 2024 in a closely contested semifinal against Spain. The defeat has drawn increased scrutiny on Deschamps, despite his illustrious tenure that includes leading France to World Cup glory in 2018.
Deschamps' current contract with the French football federation (FFF) extends through the end of the 2026 World Cup. His agreement stipulates a semifinal appearance as one of the key objectives, a milestone that was reached, offering him some measure of job security for now. Nonetheless, France's performance in the tournament has ignited debate, particularly their struggle to convert attacking prowess into consistent goal-scoring, managing just one goal from open play throughout the competition.
A National Record for Griezmann
While the team fell short of its ultimate goal, Euro 2024 did witness a historic moment for Antoine Griezmann. By coming off the bench in the 62nd minute against Spain, Griezmann set a new national record for the most appearances at World Cups and European Championships with his 36th outing. Despite a challenging personal tournament, marked by tactical shifts and changing roles under Deschamps, Griezmann remains committed to the national team. "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]," he affirmed, signaling his intent to continue contributing to France's future campaigns.
Deschamps' Future in Question
In the wake of the defeat, Deschamps faced pointed questions regarding his future. His response was notably measured yet firm: "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' tenure with the national team has been marked by significant achievements, with the 2018 World Cup victory as a pinnacle. Yet, football's demanding nature means each tournament brings new pressures and expectations. The French football federation's support will be crucial as Deschamps navigates this turbulent period and looks towards the next World Cup cycle.
Player Reactions and Team Dynamics
Reflecting on Euro 2024, Griezmann offered insights into the squad's journey and his personal experiences. "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's comments underline the complexities and challenges faced by the players as they adapt to the manager's strategies and decisions.
As the dust settles from France's Euro 2024 campaign, the focus inevitably shifts towards building a cohesive and competitive unit for the future. Deschamps' leadership will be under the microscope, with his continuation being tied not just to contractual terms but to his ability to galvanize and rejuvenate the squad. Maintaining the federation's confidence will be fundamental as he steers the team toward the 2026 World Cup aspirations.
Much hinges on how the team and its management address the shortcomings exposed in the semifinal loss to Spain. Enhanced offensive strategies and maximizing the potential of the available attacking talent will be critical areas for refinement. The road ahead demands collective resilience and strategic evolution to ensure France resumes its position among the elite on the international stage.