France coach Didier Deschamps responded to criticism surrounding his decisions in the World Cup semi-final against Spain, emphasizing that Rabiot effectively requested to be substituted.
Known as Les Bleus, France entered the tournament as the favorites to win in the USA, having claimed victory in every match against teams like Canada and Mexico. However, they suffered a 2-0 defeat against Spain in the semi-final.
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Deschamps faced backlash over some of his choices during the match, particularly his decision to start Aurelien Tchouameni over Roma’s Manu Kone.
He opted to substitute Rabiot at half-time instead of Tchouameni, which reportedly left many in the squad feeling puzzled or frustrated.
Deschamps Defends Rabiot’s Substitution
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 17: Didier Deschamps, Head Coach of France, stands with his coaching team during the National Anthems ahead of the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 match between Italy and France at San Siro on November 17, 2024. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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During a press conference prior to Saturday’s third-place match against England, Deschamps shared his side of the story.
“Regarding my relationship with Adrien and the others, at the first hydration break, he approached me and said, ‘I can’t play my normal game anymore.’
“Having been a player myself, I fully understand that feeling. I was in two semi-finals with the pressure of a yellow card, so I get it.”
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 04: Adrien Rabiot #14 of France arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match against Paraguay on July 04, 2026. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
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Rabiot received a booking in the first half, making him susceptible to another yellow card. Despite delivering one of the stronger performances on the field, Deschamps explained: “In midfield, the game is very open, and the danger can arise from anywhere. I advised him to manage himself and avoid reckless challenges. There was a moment when it was quite close. I’ve been in those situations, where I felt like a shadow of my former self, burdened by that ‘Sword of Damocles’.
“Thus, I made the decision to substitute a player who was performing well in the match. It was a risk management choice, and half-time presented a strategic opportunity for substitutions.”
Although all yellow cards were cleared after the quarter-finals, a red card would have resulted in Rabiot’s suspension, even should France have advanced to the final.