As France manager Didier Deschamps prepares for his final World Cup campaign, emotions are running high. In a recent press conference, the 56-year-old tactician opened up about the significance of his last dance on the international stage, emphasizing that the French national team remains his sole focus.
"I am aware that some of the moments I am currently living are the last," Deschamps reflected, according to reporting from L'Equipe. "It's a special emotion. I'm handling it well because the France team is above everything. All my energy, our energy, is devoted to the upcoming competition."
That awareness underpins every decision he makes, including his squad selection. With the World Cup on the horizon, Deschamps had to make tough calls to assemble a group capable of contending for the title. One of the most surprising choices was the inclusion of little-known goalkeeper Robin Risser as the third-choice option.
The goalkeeping hierarchy behind established number one Mike Maignan has been a topic of debate. Lucas Chevalier, long seen as a promising deputy, faces a complicated situation. Deschamps noted that Chevalier's circumstances, already delicate in March, remain unresolved, leaving the door open for others.
Alphonse Areola, the experienced West Ham backup, was another candidate, but his lack of regular starting football counted against him. "He has lived through a lot and has experience," Deschamps said, "but in the last six months, his playing time has been limited, and he is not a starter."
Meanwhile, Hugo Lloris, the legendary former captain and World Cup winner, was never in contention for a return as a third-string goalkeeper. Deschamps made it clear that Lloris had not put himself forward for such a role, shutting down any speculation about a nostalgic call-up.
Instead, Deschamps turned to Robin Risser, a young goalkeeper who has caught the eye with his performances this season. "Robin has had a very good season," the coach explained, "and the predominant criterion is sporting merit." The decision underscores Deschamps's commitment to picking players on current form rather than reputation.
Risser's rise to the senior squad represents a bet on youth and potential. While he may not see playing time in the tournament, his presence in the group offers valuable experience and signals a changing of the guard between the posts for Les Bleus. It also raises questions about whether he could leapfrog Chevalier in the long-term pecking order.
For Deschamps, balancing experience and freshness has been a hallmark of his tenure. The 2018 World Cup triumph was built on a blend of seasoned leaders and emerging stars, and he appears to be following a similar blueprint now, albeit with the emotional weight of a farewell tour.
As the tournament approaches, every decision will be scrutinized. Yet Deschamps's focus remains unwavering. "There were important decisions to make to put ourselves in the best conditions," he stated, convinced that Risser's selection is the right one for the squad's balance. Whether the gamble pays off will only be revealed on the grandest stage.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.