Aimé Jacquet saw his status change completely in just one month during the 1998 World Cup. By leading the French team to the roof of the world after an unforgettable victory against Brazil, the former midfielder, criticized and vilified just months before the event, entered the Pantheon of French sport. His success at the head of the Blues has led many to regard him as the greatest French coach in history. While Didier Deschamps, who built upon this legacy with the world title won in 2018 and the two finals played at Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup, can question this title, Jacquet's impact remains indelible.
Before achieving glory, Jacquet's path was marred by doubts. Criticism surrounded him leading to the World Cup, yet the triumph transformed not only his reputation but also the future of French football. His tactics and decisions during the tournament, including the key roles assigned to players like Zinédine Zidane and Youri Djorkaeff, positioned him as both tactician and strategist, shaping the path for France to follow.
Jacquet's contribution to French football is paralleled by his extensive influence at the Girondins de Bordeaux, where he clinched three championship titles (1984, 1985, and 1987) and two Coupe de France wins. His European endeavors culminated in the team’s memorable semi-final appearance in the 1985 Champions League. This stable success entrenched his legacy at the club, as emphasized by journalist Julien Bée, who noted, “For me, obviously it’s Aimé Jacquet. The modern era means he is the coach who has won the most trophies with the Girondins de Bordeaux.” Bée highlighted Jacquet’s role not only as coach but as the architect of Bordeaux’s contemporary infrastructure, directing them to Haillan after envisioning the need for advancement.
Jacquet's rivalry with Didier Deschamps amplifies discussions about French coaching. Both individuals shifted the fabric of their national team, but Jacquet's decisions also spotlight certain controversies. One notable incident involved the talented Eric Cantona. Once the crown jewel of French football, Cantona’s international career abruptly halted under Jacquet's regime, excluding him from both Euro 1996 and the 1998 World Cup. Jacquet made this choice to pivot his strategies and focus on creating opportunities for younger talents.
Despite Cantona's departure from the squad, his response to Jacquet’s decision was respectful and introspective. After initially expressing resentment, he later reflected, saying, “At one point I had some anger (towards him), of course. But today, I have nothing left… Perhaps if I had played, things would have turned differently, but we will never know.” This sentiment illustrated not only Cantona's acceptance but also the reverence held for Jacquet's methodology, which, albeit controversial, proved effective.
The differences between Jacquet and Deschamps are noteworthy; Deschamps's success counters Jacquet’s earlier triumphs, making for rich historical comparison. Deschamps has been credited with maintaining France’s footballing aura and sustaining success on the world stage. The conversations surrounding the two coaches often address the evolution of strategies and player dynamics, particularly how selections have reflected larger shifts within football.
Aimé Jacquet remains synonymous with revolutionary strategies and painstaking decisions. His tenure has shaped the narratives surrounding French football through collective triumphs and pivotal choices. He has paved the way for younger players and coaches, directly influencing the ethos of French football.
With the rise of new talents and coaches, Jacquet’s legacy continues to serve as both inspiration and benchmark, encouraging current and future generations to strive for greatness. His foresight and innovations remain embedded within both the national narrative and club-level success, securing him and his methodologies as central to France's rich footballing history.
Jacquet's impact was about much more than just titles; it was the shift he brought to the coaching philosophy and player management of French football at large. His pivotal role during the World Cup, his success with Bordeaux, and his confrontation with the likes of Cantona set the foundation for modern French football. His approach has encouraged questioning and adapting strategies, ensuring football's growth and alignment with future aspirations.