Kylian Mbappe has once again been left out of the France National team squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Israel.
The Real Madrid forward’s last appearance for Les Blues was in their recent Nations League match against Belgium, where they emerged victorious with a 2-0 win.
Meanwhile, this absence comes despite Mbappe being named as France’s captain just a few months ago during the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
However, manager Didier Deschamps has opted to keep Mbappe out of contention for the upcoming matches, raising questions about the reasoning behind this decision.
Didier Deschamps explain Kylian Mbappe’s omission from France squad
France manager Didier Deschamps has clarified that omitting captain Kylian Mbappe from the national team’s squad for this month’s Nations League double-header is a one-time decision.
At a news conference on Thursday, November 7, Deschamps explained that he had discussions with Mbappe, emphasizing that the decision was made solely for this block of matches.
Deschamps stated: “I’ve had discussions with him, it is a decision that I took for this block of matches only. Kylian wanted to come.”
Mbappe’s Recent Form and Injury Concerns
Mbappe’s exclusion comes after a tumultuous period with Real Madrid.
Since joining from Paris St-Germain last summer, the forward has struggled to replicate his exceptional form, scoring eight goals in 15 appearances.
Notably, he has netted only once in his past five games.
Moreover, Mbappe’s injury concerns in October led to his omission from France’s squad for two Nations League matches, and Deschamps appears to be exercising caution.
Mbappe’s form intensifies Real Madrid’s struggles
Real Madrid’s recent performances have raised eyebrows, particularly their 4-0 defeat to Barcelona last month.
Consequently, the La Liga champions now trail Barcelona by nine points. The former PSG’s integration into the team has been scrutinized, but Deschamps’ decision suggests France’s priority lies in preserving their star player’s fitness.
Mbappe’s France Record
Undoubtedly, Mbappe’s absence will be felt by the French team, as he is considered one of their key players and a driving force on the field.
A 2018 World Cup winner, Mbappe boasts an impressive record for France, scoring 48 goals in 86 appearances.
However, Deschamps reassured fans that Mbappe’s omission is temporary, alleviating concerns about the player’s long-term future with the national team.
“It is a one-off,” Deschamps emphasized, indicating that Mbappe will return to the squad in the future.
France National Team Squad
Goalkeeper: Lucas Chevalier, Mike Maignan, Brice Samba
Defenders: Jonathan Clauss, Lucas Digne, Wesley Fofana, Theo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konate, Jules Kounde, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Matteo Guendouzi, N’Golo Kante, Manu Kone, Andrien Rabiot, Warren Zaire-Emery
Forwards: Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani, Christopher Nkunku, Michael Olise, Marcus Thuram
Note: This squad does not include Kylian Mbappe, who was omitted by manager Didier Deschamps for the upcoming Nations League matches.
What’s next?
France star Kylian Mbappe will miss out of Les Blues Nations League match against Israel and Italy on November 14 and 17 respectively.
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