The atmosphere in Lyon was far from forgiving. Less than 24 hours after the nation celebrated a remarkable summer of sports, the previously unwavering support that had rallied French athletes in Paris since late July quickly faded as the men’s football team prepared to face Belgium in Lyon.
Names like Didier Deschamps, Kylian Mbappé, Mattéo Guendouzi, and Bradley Barcola were met with boos from segments of the home crowd upon their introduction in the lineups. The most hostile reception was reserved for Barcola when he came on in the second half, a bitterness lingering from his departure to Paris Saint-Germain over a year ago.
Mbappé’s earlier dismissal of the criticisms regarding the national team’s lackluster style of play – stating, “they’re the least of my worries” – had ignited backlash among fans, while Deschamps’ steadfast commitment to a pragmatic approach has drained some of the enthusiasm from certain fan segments.
“I recognize that I don’t have many unconditional fans in Lyon,” acknowledged the former Marseille player and manager after the match. “I won’t single out any specific club, but that’s the downside of playing matches outside the capital.” The defiant response from parts of the crowd reflected an increasing discontent with his team’s style of play, extending beyond club affiliations.
Now, twelve years into his tenure, Deschamps does not prioritise a charm offensive – quipping in July, “If you’re bored, go watch something else.” Yet his team was undone by Spain’s tactical prowess and proactive strategy, further questioning the win-at-all-costs mentality that has largely defined his tenure.
Previously, the 55-year-old could lean on his impressive record of results when facing criticism over conservative tactics. However, in the recent 3-1 defeat to Italy upon their return to Parc des Princes, Les Bleus struggled in midfield and were unusually error-prone defensively – deficiencies that had once been strengths driving their tournament successes.
Didier Deschamps providing directions to William Saliba during the match against Belgium. Photograph: Franco Arland/Getty Images
France’s lack of attacking creativity against the Azzurri was also glaring. Barcola’s quick strike just 14 seconds in – taking the ball from Giovanni Di Lorenzo and finishing smartly past his clubmate Gianluigi Donnarumma – hinted at a potential shift, especially for a player many believed deserved more minutes during the Euros.
However, the following 90 minutes showcased a disjointed performance from the forwards, devoid of sharpness and inventiveness. Les Bleus seemed weary and disheartened, showing little response after falling behind post-half-time, despite having more possession than Luciano Spalletti’s squad.
Following the game, a strongly worded rebuke reportedly came from Mike Maignan in the dressing room,
bélé’s initial attempt was deflected by Koen Casteels.
The former Barcelona winger then extended the lead himself in the second half, cutting in from the flank before scoring past the Belgian goalkeeper from the edge of the box. The revitalized lineup—facing a somewhat disorganized Belgian side—seemed to respond positively to their goalkeeper’s motivational efforts. Manu Koné, the Roma midfielder making his first start for the senior team, epitomized France’s performance that evening. After losing possession twice within the first five minutes, one leading to an early yellow card, the ex-Toulouse player quickly regained his composure and delivered a confident, energetic display. By the end of the match, the 23-year-old led the team in touches, recoveries, and duels won.
Koné played in a three-man midfield alongside an invigorated Mattéo Guendouzi and N’Golo Kanté—a shift from Deschamps’ prior two-man setup that had struggled just days earlier. Throughout the Euros, there had been various formation changes, but this appeared to be the first adjustment in a while that had a significant (and positive) effect on France’s style.
Michael Olise, another member of the Olympic silver medalists, also received his first caps this past week. The Bayern Munich winger struggled to make an impact in the offensive third but showcased some flair with audacious dribbling and established good connections with his attacking teammates. “He still has steps to take, but possesses a lot of potential and provides us with additional options,” said Deschamps after Tuesday’s match.
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However, concerns remain about Mbappé’s form. The captain was again largely ineffective as a lone striker against Italy and showed little improvement during his substitute appearance in Lyon. While shifting back to the left wing might seem the logical solution, it would be hard to justify dropping Barcola, considering the 22-year-old’s dazzling form. With Marcus Thuram also failing to impress this past week, France hasn’t advanced in identifying a first-choice frontline, especially in finding a successor to Olivier Giroud for the target-man role. Only Kolo Muani has consistently provided reassurance lately“`html
Jules Koundé has secured the right-back position – traditionally a spot with frequent changes – following an outstanding summer.
Antoine Griezmann acknowledges fans after the victory over Belgium, but his role within Les Bleus is becoming increasingly secondary. Photograph: Sarah Meyssonnier/Reuters
As with any international break after a tournament, the primary goal is to create the environment that will allow the team potentially participating in the 2026 World Cup to take shape. Deschamps’ decision to integrate some of the Olympians and his tactical flexibility over the past week might not signify a complete overhaul just yet, but it suggests the head coach recognizes the necessity for change following a challenging year thus far.
It remains to be seen whether the two lineups showcased this week will solidify into a clearly defined first-choice team as we move deeper into autumn. Although he has little to substantiate his choices at this moment – and his position was largely assured after the Euros – Deschamps has managed to alleviate some of the public dissatisfaction surrounding his role. Nevertheless, the fundamental principle persists: prioritizing results over flair.
This pragmatic approach stands in stark contrast to the excitement that swept across the nation during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, fueled by the achievements of local favorites like Léon Marchand, Teddy Riner, and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot. Even if the defeat to Italy turns out to be a mere hiccup, Les Bleus will require more than just positive outcomes to ride the wave of support following the Games.
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France’s Football Struggles: Deschamps Faces Fan Discontent Amidst Changing Dynamics
The Current Landscape of French Football
French football, once the envy of the world, is currently navigating a tumultuous period marked by fan discontent and shifting dynamics under coach Didier Deschamps. Following a string of inconsistent performances, supporters are increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with the national team’s direction.
Fan Discontent: Understanding the Root Causes
There are several key factors contributing to the growing unrest among fans:
- Underperformance in Key Matches: Recent games have seen France struggle against strong opponents. For example, their last-16 victory over Belgium was overshadowed by Kylian Mbappe’s discomfort with a protective mask, raising concerns about players’ fitness and readiness [[1](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c80xpze0yg1o)].
- Stagnation of Tactics: Critics argue that Deschamps’ tactics have become predictable, failing to adapt to the evolving nature of international football.
- Player Morale and Cohesion: There are reports suggesting that the locker room atmosphere is not as harmonious as it once was, which can significantly impact performance on the pitch.
Deschamps’ Approach to Coaching: A Double-Edged Sword
Didier Deschamps has had a storied career, leading France to victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. However, his recent approach has come under scrutiny:
- Defensive Mindset: Deschamps is often criticized for prioritizing a defensive approach at the expense of attacking flair.
- Reliance on Key Players: The coach’s heavy reliance on stars like Mbappe may alienate other talents and create an imbalance within the squad.
Case Study: Recent Match Performances
| Match Date | Opponent | Result | Key Players | Fan Reactions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 1, 2024 | Belgium | Win | Kylian Mbappe | Discontent over performance despite the win |
| June 5, 2024 | Germany | Loss | Antoine Griezmann | Calls for tactical change |
| May 20, 2024 | Italy | Draw | Ousmane Dembélé | Frustration over missed opportunities |
Changing Dynamics in the Squad
As the football landscape evolves, so must the team dynamics. France’s current squad features a mix of experienced players and emerging talent:
- Emerging Stars: Young talents like Eduardo Camavinga and Marcus Thuram are pushing for more playing time, leading to potential friction with established stars.
- Injuries and Fitness Issues: The recurring injuries, such as Mbappe’s recent mask-related discomfort, raise concerns about team readiness and depth.
Benefits of Embracing a New Tactical Approach
Adjusting tactics could yield several advantages for the French national team:
- Enhanced Creativity: A more fluid attacking style could unleash the creative potential of midfielders and forwards.
- Improved Player Morale: Empowering younger players can foster a sense of ownership and excitement within the squad.
Practical Tips for Addressing Fan Discontent
To alleviate fan frustrations and restore confidence in the national team, the following strategies could be implemented:
- Open Communication: Establishing a dialogue between the coaching staff and fans can help address concerns and build trust.
- Regular Performance Reviews: Conducting assessments of player performances and tactics can identify areas for improvement.
- Engaging Fan Feedback: Actively seeking and incorporating fan feedback can create a more inclusive atmosphere.
Looking Ahead: The Path Forward for France
As French football grapples with its current challenges, the path forward will rely heavily on Deschamps’ ability to adapt and respond to both player and fan sentiments. Emphasizing a balanced approach that integrates the team’s rich history with modern football demands will be crucial in regaining support and success.
First-Hand Experience: What Fans Are Saying
Fans have expressed their views through various platforms, indicating a common desire for change:
- Social Media Sentiment: Many fans take to Twitter and forums to voice their frustrations, often using hashtags like #DeschampsOut.
- At Matches: Supporters have been seen holding up banners calling for tactical changes, showcasing their desire for a more attacking style of play.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for French Football
As France seeks to navigate this challenging period, it remains essential for Deschamps and his squad to align with fan expectations while fostering a competitive environment. Through strategic changes and addressing the current dissatisfaction, French football can aim to reclaim its status on the global stage.
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