‘Even if we are expected to be there, you can’t banalise it’ – Didier Deschamps reacts to France’s quarter-final qualification | OneFootball

France have thus far flattered to deceive at Euro 2024, stringing together a series of underwhelming performances (two wins, two draws). However, despite finishing second in their group, Les Bleus overcame a tough test in the form of Belgium in the Round of 16 to book their place in the quarter-finals. Didier Deschamps believes that that achievement shouldn’t be “banalised”.

Deschamps’ decisions have at times been criticised this summer. His decision to start an unconventional right-back in the form of Jules Koundé is nothing new, however, it is a decision that still has its critics, whilst his decision to take Randal Kolo Muani to the Euros was also criticised, following the forward’s difficult debut campaign at Paris Saint-Germain.

Deschamps hits back at Koundé and Kolo Muani criticism

Against Belgium, Koundé earned the Man of the Match award, whilst it was Kolo Muani’s deflected effort that saw France progress. “Jules Koundé, you’ve been beating me up for two years and he is the Man of the Match; Kolo Muani was the goalscorer, so you have to show a bit of restraint,” said Deschamps in a press conference, attended by Get French Football News.

He added, “I’m immensely proud to be in the quarter-finals. Even if we are expected to be there, you can’t banalise. It is a high-level match, very close. When we win, we are demonstrative,” said the France manager, justifying the post-match celebrations. “You have to enjoy every moment. We’re not going to get carried away but we’re in the quarter-finals.”

GFFN | Luke Entwistle