Didier Deschamps didn’t hold back after France’s crushing 5-2 defeat to Spain in the UEFA Nations League semifinal.
The France manager acknowledged the team’s fighting spirit but pointed to costly defensive errors and lapses in focus. Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, Les Bleus were undone by Spain’s ruthlessness in front of goal.
Deschamps defended his players, including Lenglet, who played through personal challenges, and praised Ryan Cherki’s promising debut with a goal and assists.
Kylian Mbappé led the line again, while Dembélé continued his run of form, but France lacked stability at the back — a result of missing key regulars due to injury.
Deschamps highlighted this as a valuable lesson for the younger players and reaffirmed his confidence in the team’s long-term direction ahead of upcoming tournaments.
Was this just a stumble, or a deeper issue for France moving forward?