France's cautious strategy under Didier Deschamps: Kylian Mbappé's influence on tactical restraint
Gabriel Sebopeng 30 June 2024 12

France's cautious strategy under Didier Deschamps: Kylian Mbappé's influence on tactical restraint

The French national football team, under the stewardship of coach Didier Deschamps, has often been scrutinized for its cautious and pragmatic style of play. Despite a track record that boasts a World Cup victory in 2018 and multiple appearances in major finals, there remains a chorus of critics who decry the lack of excitement in the team's approach. The underlying reasons for this cautious strategy are rooted in Deschamps' past experiences both as a player and as a coach.

The pragmatic roots in Deschamps' career

Deschamps' cautious philosophy can be traced back to his playing days, particularly under the tutelage of Marcelo Lippi at Juventus. During his tenure at the Italian club, Deschamps was imbued with a sense of defensive solidity and tactical discipline. These principles were further reinforced by his stint under Aimé Jacquet during France’s victorious 1998 World Cup campaign. Jacquet’s approach was also marked by a focus on defensive robustness and strategic pragmatism.

Such a foundation has evidently influenced Deschamps' own coaching philosophy. France's 2018 World Cup win is often cited as a masterpiece of tactical prudence. The team’s play was characterized by a solid defensive unit, compact midfield, and swift counter-attacks. This approach not only brought success but also resonated with other coaches, such as Portugal's Fernando Santos during their Euro 2016 triumph.

Mbappé's brilliance: A double-edged sword

Amidst the debate over Deschamps' tactics, one of the key factors that fuel this controversy is the presence of Kylian Mbappé. Undoubtedly, Mbappé is one of the most electrifying players in world football today. His blistering pace, dribbling skills, and finishing prowess add a dynamic element to the French attack that can both dazzle and disrupt.

However, it is Mbappé's very brilliance that poses a challenge for Deschamps. The young forward’s individualistic style, while capable of producing moments of magic, often stands in contrast to the cohesive and structured system that Deschamps prefers. In matches, Mbappé's inclination to take on defenders and seek solo exploits can occasionally lead to a breakdown in team play. This paradox puts Deschamps in a conundrum: how to harness Mbappé’s talents without compromising on the team’s tactical discipline.

Comparative influences and the road ahead

Deschamps' approach is not an isolated case in modern football. Gareth Southgate, the England national team coach, appears to have been influenced by a similar template. Southgate’s England team, known for its defensive sturdiness and strategic conservatism, parallels the French model in several aspects. Despite garnering success and reaching the final of Euro 2020, Southgate, like Deschamps, has faced criticism for not fully leveraging the attacking capabilities of his talented squad.

As France gears up to face Belgium, a historical rivalry that often tilts in France's favor, the clash is emblematic of the larger tactical debate. Belgium, under Roberto Martinez, has displayed a more adventurous and attacking brand of football. However, their boldness has sometimes left them vulnerable defensively—a factor that France could potentially exploit. Yet, it remains to be seen whether Deschamps will employ his tried-and-tested cautious approach or opt for a more aggressive strategy.

No matter the tactical disposition, the encounter between France and Belgium is poised to be a thrilling spectacle. Belgium, despite recent struggles and a less cohesive defense, has the attacking prowess capable of unsettling France’s structured defense. Players like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku can pose significant threats, and Deschamps must find a balance between maintaining defensive solidity and allowing the likes of Mbappé the freedom to express their attacking flair.

The broader implications

The cautious approach adopted by Deschamps and its enablers has broader implications beyond individual matches. It serves as a case study in the perennial balancing act faced by national team coaches: the need to win versus the desire to entertain. Deschamps’ success, defined in terms of trophies and finals appearances, underscores a fundamental truth in football—pragmatism often trumps flamboyance.

Nevertheless, the clamour for a more exhilarating brand of football persistently punctuates the narrative surrounding the French national team. With a roster brimming with talent, including the mercurial Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Karim Benzema, there is an expectation among fans and pundits alike for France to showcase a more attractive style of play. This expectation is not unfounded, given the skill sets of these players who thrive in fast-paced, attack-oriented systems at their respective clubs.

In conclusion, Didier Deschamps faces a perpetual tactical dilemma. His inclination towards caution is deeply rooted in his footballing philosophy—one shaped by influential mentors and historical precedence. While this approach has undeniably yielded success, it also stands at odds with the dazzling potential of players like Kylian Mbappé. As France prepares for their showdown with Belgium, and continue on their footballing journey, the challenge for Deschamps will remain: to strike a harmonious balance between disciplined pragmatism and the exhilarating unpredictability of talent.