France coach Didier Deschamps has responded angrily to questions about his future in charge after his side were eliminated in the Euro 2024 semi-finals by Spain on Tuesday.
Deschamps, who led France to glory at the 2018 World Cup, is under contract until the end of the 2026 World Cup, although questions have been raised over his position after France scored just one goal from open play at the European Championship despite boasting a wealth of attacking talent.
Reaching the semi-finals of the tournament in Germany was a target in Deschamps' contract with the French football federation, meaning he will remain as coach.
Asked at his post-match press conference on Tuesday whether he intended to lead France at the 2026 World Cup, Deschamps said: “You are terrible. Ask the president that question.” [of the FFF]I'm coming from losing a semi-final and you think I already have [thought about that]?
“I respect you, you should try to respect people who have responsibilities a little more too. I say this with complete confidence.
“What happened happened. I'm here to answer your questions, but I'm not going to answer that today. You know the situation very well and you know what the president thinks, so maybe you didn't have to ask me that question.”
Meanwhile, French stalwart Antoine Griezmann expressed his displeasure at not starting in the semi-final clash following the defeat.
Griezmann set a new national record for most appearances at World Cups and European Championships when he came off the bench in the 62nd minute for his 36th appearance at the tournament, but said he did not understand Deschamps' decision despite acknowledging his own poor form at Euro 2024.
“I started off badly,” he said. “Then I felt better and better and ended up on the bench. We'll be back. I tried to give it my all with a lot of tactical and positional changes. I had to adapt all the time.”
“Comprehension [Deschamps’ decision]? No, that's personal. But that's the life of a footballer. There are other players in the squad who haven't played a single minute, so I'm not going to be the one to complain.
Griezmann added that he had no intention of retiring from international football following the disappointing elimination.
“Oh, guys,” he replied when asked if this was his last tournament. “I still want to play.” [in 2026].”
Information from Reuters contributed to this report.
