The pressure is mounting on France manager Didier Deschamps following his team's heartbreaking exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of Spain in the semifinals. This result has stirred a wave of scrutiny and speculation about the future of the man who previously led France to World Cup glory in 2018.
Despite the setback in Germany, Deschamps' tenure as the national team manager remains secure for now, thanks in part to a contractual clause. The French football federation had set reaching the semifinals as a key objective in his current contract, which runs through to the end of the 2026 World Cup. Meeting this milestone ensures his immediate position stays intact, but the looming question is, for how long?
Performance at Euro 2024 has left much to be desired, particularly in the offensive department. France managed to score just one goal from open play during the entire tournament despite boasting a roster rich in attacking talent. This inefficacy in front of goal has not gone unnoticed by fans and pundits, adding to the growing pressure on Deschamps.
Deschamps faced tough questions from the media following the semifinal defeat. When asked about his future, he responded with visible 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."
Amid these turbulent times, one bright spot for Les Bleus was Antoine Griezmann, who set a national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships with his 36th tournament appearance. Griezmann came off the bench in the 62nd minute against Spain, a testament to his longevity and commitment to the national side. Despite facing personal challenges during the tournament, Griezmann remained upbeat about the future.
"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 said.
Looking ahead, Griezmann has made it clear that he is eager to continue contributing to the national team and set his sights on the next World Cup. "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]," he declared, signaling his intent to remain a key figure for France in the coming years.
The French football federation's support will play a pivotal role in determining Deschamps' future with the team. While his contract buys him some time, the federation's backing and the team's performance in the upcoming events will be critical.
Deschamps has demonstrated his capability to lead France to the pinnacle of international football before, but the recent underwhelming performance at Euro 2024 has cast doubts. The backing of the federation, coupled with strong performances in future matches, will be crucial in defining the next chapter for both Deschamps and the French national team.