July 11 – Didier Deschamps is staying on as France coach after being praised by the head of the country’s federation for leading the team “in the best possible way” at Euro 2024.
France lost 2-1 to Spain in the semi-finals on Tuesday, ending an underwhelming tournament for Kylian Mbappé and his teammates.
However, in an interview with French daily L’Equipe on Wednesday, Philippe Diallo said Deschamps fulfilled the objectives set before the tournament – reaching the semi-finals – and will carry on as coach with a deal through 2026.
“I don’t see any reason to question his contract,” Diallo said. “The results of the past speak in his favour and the objectives have been achieved. Didier will continue his mission. The balance is generally positive insofar as the objective set for the semi-final has been achieved.”
France were widely criticised for their pragmatic style of play at Euro 2024, with Randal Kolo Muani’s header against Spain the team’s first and only goal from open play all tournament.
Under Deschamps, France won the World Cup in 2018, reached the final in 2022 and also lost in the European Championship final in 2016. But France have not won the Euros for 24 years.
Few teams boast a squad as strong but while his side defended superbly for most of the Euros, Deschamps’ attackers failed to sparkle.
Mbappe, handicapped by fitness problems and having to wear a protective mask because of broken nose, was a shadow of his usual self.
“My ambition was to be champion of Europe and have a good Euros, and I have not done one thing or the other,” said Mbappe, whose only goal in Germany was a penalty against Poland.
“Despite reaching the last four, France go out of the Euros with a bitter taste,” was how L’Equipe aptly summed up the campaign.
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