Didier Deschamps, the French national football team manager, has led his country to their worst exit from the World Cup in 14 years, sparking debate over his managerial legacy. Despite being the most decorated Frenchman on the global stage, Deschamps' team was outclassed by Spain in the semi-finals, ending their World Cup campaign. The French team had been favourites to win the tournament, but their 4-2 loss to Spain has left many questioning whether Deschamps has underachieved throughout his tenure.
Deschamps has been at the helm of the French team since 2012, leading them to a World Cup title in 2018. However, his team's performances in the 2026 World Cup have been lacklustre, with many fans and pundits criticising his tactics and team selection. The manager has faced criticism for his decision to stick with a 4-2-3-1 formation, which was exploited by Spain's midfielders. Deschamps has also been accused of being too loyal to certain players, including Aurelien Tchouameni, who started ahead of Manu Kone despite not being fully fit.
Despite the criticism, Deschamps remains one of the most successful managers in French football history. He has led his team to four major finals, including two World Cup titles, and has developed a reputation for getting the best out of his players. However, the question of whether he has underachieved throughout his tenure remains a topic of debate. With the World Cup now over, Deschamps will face intense scrutiny over the coming weeks and months as he reflects on his time in charge of the French team.