A Year with Laurent: Only the Illusion of Success?
A Year with Laurent: Only the Illusion of Success?
Les Bleus wrapped up 2011 with a 0-0 draw at home against Belgium, an unconvincing performance that unsettled many critics in France. Just over a year since taking the top seat, the grace period and overall optimism linked to Laurent Blanc’s appointment have clearly evaporated. There is no talk of getting rid of the former Bordeaux coach of course but the consensus is evident: France is not playing good enough with the player it has. It is true that France seemed to lack pace and presence in the final third against Belgium and even during the win against the USA. Yet, Blanc’s men have just booked their place into the Euro (without going through the playoffs) and are currently defending a 17-game unbeaten streak. So which is it? Is Blanc fulfilling his promises or was 2011 only the illusion of a successful year for Les Bleus?
Yann M'Vila, Adil Rami, Marvin Martin: all names that were unknown on the international scene before Laurent Blanc took over and that have now firmly settled in the France team. The 1998 World Cup champion’s experimental approach has indeed helped these players develop into some of the best players in Europe. Just in 2011, while staying unbeaten, Blanc used 36 different players and yet Les Bleus always remained a cohesive unit far from the shambolic display of summer 2010.
To think that France’s central defense in the last match before Blanc took over was Gallas and Squilacci highlights how far Les Bleus have come in a year. Laurent Blanc’s greatest achievement so far has been to rebuild the French defense from scratch. During his time as player, Blanc was an efficient defender and he has certainly transferred his experience to the team. In 2011, a mix of Rami, Mexes, Kaboul and others has conceded on average only 0.38 goals per game, the third best year defensively in France’s history.
Quality in midfield is also certainly not missing, however Blanc has struggled to find the working combination. One of the most criticized players, Samir Nasri, was very clearly missed against both Belgium. Only Ribery seemed to be able to find Benzema with Martin and Cabaye completely invisible. Nasri has to take over the Zizou role as Les Bleus’ playmaker as he has already shown a good communication with Martin and is the best at finding Benzema. Finally, while Remy on the right adds more than any other forward, Ribery is the “Knysna survivor” that has shown the most desire to make an impact.
I think this is still a side that is looking for its identity, which is embodied in Blanc’s eternal search for a long-standing captain. Alou Diarra’s poor form has opened the door to Hugo Lloris, however I can’t see the Lyon goalkeeper having the needed character for such an important role. With the Euro now just around the corner, Blanc needs to settle on a captain quickly.
With his contract ending after the competition and the seeding far from favoring France (Spain, Germany and Portugal is a possible group), Laurent Blanc could be fighting for his job this summer. Losing him would be disappointing as his work in 2011 has been a milestone in the development of a strong French team. Les Bleus’ next trip is in Germany where we will see exactly how competitive France has become.
Considering France’s level at the moment, do you think Laurent Blanc has done a good job?
