Michel Platini has dismissed France's chances of winning the World Cup, believing that the "Raymond problem" and a lack of great talent will see them ultimately fail in South Africa this summer.

Platini, the Uefa president, gave his support to Raymond Domenech following a dismal Euro 2008 performance by Les Bleus but now believes the coach is holding the team back, citing as an example his infamous television proposal to his girlfriend immediately after France flunked out at the group stage two years ago, finishing bottom of their pool with just one point.

"There's a Raymond problem. A problem of personality, not as a coach," said Platini. "He was hopeless, it was after the Euros with his proposal which hurt the whole of France. People were in pain and he comes with his words. He knew it, he's acknowledged it, he messed up and that's it.

"Before being himself, he is the coach of the France team. His duty is to the whole French footballing family."

France have failed to improve since then and struggled to qualify for South Africa, only booking their place following a controversial handball in their play-off against the Republic of Ireland.

"I don't see them [France] winning," added Platini. "I see them passing the first round. After they will play either Argentina or Nigeria.

"The France team are not currently the best in the world, nor among the three best teams in the world, but they are part of those teams, like Argentina, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Holland, who will be difficult to beat.

"There are good individuals in the group, but let's be clear, there's no great individual. Simply put, I think France have lost a great generation

France begin their World Cup campaign against Uruguay on 11 June before playing Mexico and the hosts South Africa.