Kylian Mbappe did not hold back in his assessment after France's World Cup exit, criticizing manager Didier Deschamps' tactics and questioning his teammates' technical execution following a 2-0 semifinal defeat to Spain. The loss ended France's bid to defend their title and marks the likely conclusion of Deschamps' tenure as national team coach.
Mbappe pointed to issues in midfield control and communication during pressing as key factors in the loss. "We were three against two in midfield, and against Spain, that's hard," Mbappe stated. "Fabian (Ruiz) and Rodri had plenty of time to play. There was a lack of communication on the press. I think we should have done man-to-man press and force them to run with us."
He further suggested that the team did not execute their intended game plan effectively. "When you don't do what you have to do in a World Cup semi-final, you don't win," he added, implying a lack of adherence to tactical instructions. "Spain respected their game plan and what the team usually does. ... We didn't manage to do it. We were too sloppy technically. We could not hurt them when we could have."
The French forward also acknowledged his own responsibility, stating, "At the end of the day, you take all the glory when you win, and when you don't win, you have to take the s***."
France, who entered the tournament as favorites, were overcome by a disciplined Spanish side that controlled possession and tempo. The defeat in Dallas was Deschamps' final match after leading the team through multiple tournaments, including a World Cup victory in 2018 and a final appearance in 2022.
Zinedine Zidane, a former French international teammate of Deschamps, is widely expected to be appointed as the new head coach. Zidane has been unattached since leaving Real Madrid in 2021 and is reportedly in line to take over the national team. Reports suggest Zidane may bring former teammate Fabien Barthez into his coaching staff. Zidane is believed to have a good relationship with Mbappe, potentially easing the transition.