Deschamps explains Rabiot substitution: Fear of red card influenced decision

Didier Deschamps, the head coach of the French national team, disclosed the details behind his decision to substitute midfielder Adrien Rabiot during the World Cup 2026 semi-final against Spain, explaining that the yellow card received by the player was the main factor behind the change.

Didier Deschamps explained that Rabiot approached him during the water break and said: "Coach, I can no longer play my usual style due to the yellow card," indicating that the excessive caution affected his performance in midfield.

The French coach added: "When you play in midfield, the game is at a 360-degree angle, so I told him: control yourself, and avoid leaving your foot extended, because it was not far from receiving another card," emphasizing that he feared losing his player due to a red card in a match of this magnitude.

Deschamps concluded his remarks by affirming that he does not regret his decision, stating: "I could have acted differently, but I am not asking myself those questions now; I made my decision based on the information that was in front of me, and according to my previous experience." This came after the loss to Spain with a score of 2-0 in the semi-finals.