France head coach Didier Deschamps has defended Michael Olise after the Bayern Munich winger faced criticism following Tuesday’s 2-0 World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain. Olise started the match in Les Bleus’ final fixture of the tournament but was unable to prevent the defending champions from exiting at the penultimate stage.
Speaking at his post-match press conference, Deschamps dismissed the negative reaction to the 24-year-old’s display. “I think you’re being a bit harsh,” the France manager said. “He wasn’t at his best against Spain, just like some of the others.”
Deschamps acknowledged that the occasion may have affected the former Crystal Palace winger, noting that “the big occasion and the emotional side of it are also a factor.” He also stressed the quality of the opposition, stating that observers must “give credit to the opponent.”
Deschamps points to breakthrough
Despite the semi-final exit, Deschamps emphasised Olise’s overall contribution during France’s campaign. The coach argued that the Bayern Munich attacker had established himself as a key figure on the international stage.
“If there’s one player who truly broke through at this World Cup, it’s him,” Deschamps stated. “And on top of that, he’s a genuinely great person. He will reach even greater heights.”
Deschamps contextualised Olise’s performance by referencing the development curve of centre-back Dayot Upamecano. The manager noted that Upamecano “took him time to get there” before becoming the “absolute monster” he is now, suggesting patience is required with younger players on the biggest stage.
Tournament statistics
The numbers support Deschamps’s defence of Olise. The winger featured in every match for France during the competition and registered five assists, marking a prolific debut World Cup campaign.
Olise’s creative output made him one of Les Bleus’ most influential attackers throughout the tournament. His consistency—playing in all of France’s fixtures—demonstrates the trust Deschamps placed in him despite his relative inexperience at international level.
France’s exit at the semi-final stage represents a disappointing conclusion to their campaign, but Olise’s emergence provides a significant positive for the squad as they look ahead to future tournaments.