Didier Deschamps hits back at critics and says he 'has the energy' to continue in France post
Today at 06:05 AM
Didier Deschamps has plenty of credit in the bank. Having won the FIFA World Cup with Les Bleus back in 2018, he then went on to lead them to the final of the World Cup in 2022, ultimately losing on penalties to Argentina in Qatar.
However, despite leading France to the semi-finals of the Euros this summer, Deschamps has come in for criticism for the way that they got there. Randal Kolo Muani’s goal against Spain in the semi-final defeat was the only goal scored by a French player from open play in the whole competition.
He has since been the subject of criticism, whilst Les Bleus’ form since EURO 2024 has done little to dampen that criticism, and from some, calls for change. Whilst Zinédine Zidane is constantly linked with the position as manager of Les Bleus, Deschamps has the strong backing of FFF president Philippe Diallo, with whom a strong relationship has been forged.
And whilst criticism has only intensified since the 0-0 draw against Israel earlier this week, Deschamps has stated his determination to continue in the role. “I have my energy and I have everything to continue to maintain the France national team at the level it has reached, with the expectations that are there. Criticism has always been a part of my life – compliments too,” he began in a press conference ahead of Les Bleus’ UEFA Nations League encounter against Italy on Sunday.
He continued, “That won’t influence what I’ve got to do, what I think about doing to ensure that the France national team performs as well as possible.”
