France’s resounding 5-4 defeat to Spain has sparked a storm in the French football world. At the heart of the controversy is a series of explosive statements from key figures, including Lilian Thuram, Marcus Thuram, and Kylian Mbappé, all of whom have criticized the decisions of coach Didier Deschamps. Lilian Thuram, a French football legend and 1998 World Cup winner, publicly criticized Deschamps for not playing his son, Marcus Thuram, in the crucial match. He said the Inter Milan striker, known for his speed and finishing, could have made a difference against a formidable Spanish side. Lilian didn’t mince his words, going so far as to castigate a Paris Saint-Germain player, whom he accused of lacking commitment and not deserving of his place in the national team, without revealing his identity.
Marcus Thuram, for his part, intensified the controversy by calling for Deschamps’ dismissal. Frustrated by his absence from the pitch and the team’s overall performance, he described the defeat as humiliating and felt the coach had made unacceptable tactical choices. His comments sparked a heated debate, with some fans supporting his audacity, while others deemed his statements disrespectful to such an experienced manager. But the controversy didn’t end there. Kylian Mbappé, the team’s captain and star, also expressed his anger. In a sensational media outburst, he demanded the immediate dismissal of a player, declaring that he “doesn’t deserve to be a starter.” Although Mbappé did not name the player in question, his comments fueled speculation and increased pressure on Deschamps.
Faced with this wave of criticism, Didier Deschamps responded with his usual calm but undeniable firmness. During a press conference, he defended his tactical choices, explaining that each decision was made in the best interest of the team and based on the context of the match. He also protected his players, rejecting the accusations against one of them and calling for unity within the squad. His response, both calm and incisive, somewhat defused tensions, but did not extinguish the debate. This affair highlights the immense expectations weighing on the French team and its coach, especially after such a spectacular defeat. The criticism of the Thurams and Mbappé reflects the frustration of a generation of players and fans who demand immediate results. However, Deschamps, with his record of success, seems determined to stay the course. This crisis, although temporary, is risky.
