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. The loss has brought intense scrutiny to Deschamps, who previously led France to World Cup glory in 2018, but now faces questions about his future with the national team.
Deschamps' current contract runs through the end of the 2026 World Cup, providing a semblance of job security following a somewhat underwhelming tournament performance where France managed just one goal from open play despite a plethora of attacking talent. Nonetheless, the semifinal appearance in Germany was an objective in Deschamps' contract with the French football federation, meaning his position, for now, remains secure.
Deschamps Defends His Position
Amid the speculation around his future, Deschamps was notably tight-lipped during the post-match press conference. When questioned about his job security, Deschamps responded firmly. "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 said.
Griezmann Sets National Record
Amid the drama surrounding Deschamps' future, Antoine Griezmann quietly etched his name into the history books. The forward set a new national record for the most appearances at World Cups and European Championships, with his 36th tournament appearance coming when he entered the semifinal against Spain in the 62nd minute. Despite the setback, Griezmann remained committed to the national team’s 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 explained.
Eyes on the Future
Despite France's disappointing finish, Griezmann made clear his intentions to continue contributing to the national team. "Oh guys, I still want to play [in 2026]," he asserted, leaving little doubt about his commitment to the French cause.
The French football federation's support will be crucial to Deschamps' future with the team. While the semi-final exit from Euro 2024 hangs heavy, the federation must decide whether to stand by the manager who once brought France to the pinnacle of international football.
The coming weeks and months will likely be decisive for Deschamps, Griezmann, and the entire French national team as they look to rebound from their European disappointment and build towards future successes, including the next World Cup.