Whilst France may have reached the semi-final at Euro 2024 in Germany earlier this summer, Les Bleus were the subject of intense criticism throughout the tournament, pertaining to the quality of the football that they produced. 

That criticism was levelled at France’s ambition and creativity in possession. As Deschamps sides often are, France were defensively resolute throughout the competition, however, it took until the semi-final for a French player to score from open play. Les Bleus only netted four goals throughout the tournament, including two own goals, one penalty and one outfield goal, scored by Randal Kolo Muani in the semi-final defeat to Spain. 

Deschamps admits France players ‘frustrated’

“We had defensive solidity but going the other way (offensively), no one stepped up,” analysed the France manager, speaking ahead of the UEFA Nations League encounters against Italy and Belgium. “With this attacking deficit, it was difficult, very difficult,” he added. 

Deschamps, amid criticism of his own management, defended himself, stating, “I am not blind from the fact that we are capable of doing more. Were we capable of doing more? I don’t think so. We did everything in terms of commitment.,” said Deschamps who said that there was also “frustration” within the squad during the tournament. 

“There weren’t many changes during the competition. That brought frustration, it’s normal,” he said. For the upcoming international break, Deschamps has chosen a largely unchanged squad. Benjamin Pavard has not been included, whilst Olivier Giroud has since retired from international football. Adrien Rabiot, who is yet to find a club since the expiry of his contract at Juventus, understandably misses out, as does Kingsley Coman, whose club future is also uncertain. Michael Olise and Manu Koné have received their first call-ups; Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana is also a part of the squad.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle