The pressure is mounting on France manager Didier Deschamps following his team’s exit from Euro 2024 at the hands of Spain in the semifinals. Despite previously leading France to World Cup glory in 2018, Deschamps finds himself under scrutiny once more.
Deschamps' current contract with the French football federation extends through the end of the 2026 World Cup. An objective of reaching the semifinals in the ongoing tournament was outlined in his contract, and while he has met this stipulation, questions about his future have begun to surface.
France's performance in Euro 2024 was lackluster. The team managed just one goal from open play throughout the tournament, despite possessing a wealth of attacking talent. Although they reached the semifinals, the squad's overall lack of offensive production raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike.
In a tense post-match interaction, Deschamps was visibly irritated by a question regarding 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]?" Deschamps said. "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."
The French football federation's support will be crucial to Deschamps' future with the team. For now, having met the contractual objective of reaching the semifinals, his position remains secure, but the scrutiny remains intense.
One bright spot for France has been the consistent performance and dedication of Antoine Griezmann. The forward set a new national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships with his 36th tournament appearance when he came off the bench in the 62nd minute against Spain.
Griezmann has been open about his commitment to the national team and his desire to play in the 2026 World Cup. Reflecting on his performance and the tournament, he mentioned, "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 determination to continue representing France was clear. "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]," he reaffirmed, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the national cause.
As France moves forward, the federation and its supporters will closely monitor Deschamps' strategies and the team's performances. The road to the 2026 World Cup will undoubtedly be filled with challenges, but with a blend of experienced leaders like Griezmann and new emerging talents, France aims to bounce back stronger.
The next steps for Deschamps and the national squad will be pivotal. Can Deschamps regain the magic he once wielded to lead a team to World Cup victory, or will the mounting pressure and scrutiny prove insurmountable?