Didier Deschamps’ bleak France debut, a first glimpse of the future | OneFootball

Didier Deschamps’ France debut came in bleak circumstances, a 0-0 against Yugoslavia on 29 April 1989 that ended hopes of reaching the 1990 World Cup, yet it also hinted at what would follow.

Brought on by Michel Platini in the 76th minute, the 20-year-old immediately nutmegged Zlatko Vujovic. L'Équipe notes that Thierry Roland introduced him as a major prospect, and later analysis praised his acceleration, maturity and personality, though it could not alter the result.

He had broken into the First Division in September 1985 and was not expected to be called so soon. Daniel Bravo’s injury opened the door despite a crucial Under-21 Euro date, to Marc Bourrier’s frustration. Gérard Houllier is described as France coach, forming an unusual duo with Platini in a turbulent spell.

Deschamps spent five days at Clairefontaine and said being among the 17 met a short-term target. He wondered if he should repeat Platini’s wish to defend high. Integration was swift.

As the 17th man he would have slept alone but joined Daniel Xuereb and Joël Bats. Xuereb recalls a diligent, serious youngster who minded training and diet, and who replaced him that night. They later lived near each other at Marseille in 1991-1992 and he found Deschamps unchanged.

Basile Boli quickly saw a perfectionist fixated on winning. Between his fourth and seventh caps he scored three times, then finished in September 2000 with 103 appearances and only one more.

Source: L'Équipe