Didier Deschamps: A Liked and Controversial Figure as a National Team Head Coach

Explore the perception of Didier Deschamps as a head coach of the French national team and the opinions of French people towards him.

Football / 2025-01-13 23:21:29

Perceptions of Didier Deschamps

Didier Deschamps has left a remarkable legacy as the head coach of the French national team. According to a survey conducted by the independent research institute Odoxa, 83% of French people have a positive opinion of him. The survey reveals that Deschamps is seen as a competent, likable, and unifying figure. In fact, 77% of respondents consider him to be an exemplary coach.

Leadership Style

Deschamps' authoritarian style of leadership, although divisive, has played a significant role in the team's success. Approximately 57% of respondents described him as autocratic. However, it is worth noting that 70% of French people regard Deschamps as the best coach in the history of the national team.

Opinions on Deschamps' Tenure

This perception marks a significant shift from the past. In 2013, only 14% of French people had a favorable opinion of their national team. Today, that number has increased to 70%. Nonetheless, many citizens believe that it is time for Deschamps' 14-year tenure to come to an end. Sixty-two percent of respondents see his departure in a positive light, mirroring the sentiment of 75% of football fans.

Playing Style

There is a tangible sense of weariness surrounding the team's style of play. Only 62% of French people find the current team's playing style enjoyable to watch. Among football fans, this figure drops to 57%. Despite this prevailing sentiment, there is little doubt among respondents about who should succeed Deschamps as the head coach.

Deschamps' Successor

For 65% of fans, Zinedine Zidane is the clear choice to take over the reins of the national team. Thierry Henry, Arsene Wenger, and Laurent Blanc each garnered the support of 12% of respondents, while Christophe Galtier received 3%.

Legacy of Deschamps

At 56 years old, Deschamps has had a decorated career both as a player and as a coach. Since taking on the role of head coach in 2012, he has won silver at the 2016 European Championships, clinched victory at the 2018 World Cup, and secured the team's runner-up position four years later.

Deschamps' impact on French football cannot be overstated. His ability to unite a team, despite his autocratic style, has yielded remarkable results. Whether or not he remains as the head coach, his legacy is one that will endure in the memories of French football fans for years to come.