France’s head coach, Didier Deschamps, expressed sympathy for his team’s lackluster showings during the March international break, admitting that he expects more from his players in the upcoming summer tournaments. The French side suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Germany in Lyon, followed by a narrow 3-2 victory over Chile in Marseille. Despite the win against Chile, it was evident that Les Bleus were not performing at their usual standard.
L’Équipe reported a lack of motivation within the squad during the international break, with discussions centered more around the UEFA Champions League than the impending Euros. Additionally, the intense club calendar leading up to the break left some players fatigued, while others arrived with minor injuries, as evidenced by Jonathan Clauss’ hamstring injury and Eduardo Camavinga’s muscle sprain during the match against Chile.
Deschamps addresses player management and expectations
Deschamps empathized with the drop in performance, attributing it partly to fitness levels and energy. He acknowledged the challenges faced by players managing themselves amidst a demanding schedule but stressed the need for a different approach in June. Despite the difficulties encountered during the March international break, Deschamps expressed confidence in the team’s capacity and desire to improve.
As a former player himself, Deschamps understands the importance of managing players effectively and ensuring they are prepared for the challenges ahead. He recognized the significance of the upcoming tournaments and emphasized the need for a fresh approach to ensure optimal performance from the team. Deschamps remains hopeful that Les Bleus will rise to the occasion and demonstrate their true potential when it matters most.
