Mbappe left out of France’s squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Israel and Italy, with coach Didier Deschamps describing the decision as “for the best.”
This marks the second consecutive time the French captain has been absent from the national lineup. Mbappe also missed October’s double-header against Israel and Belgium. Deschamps, addressing reporters in Paris, explained, “I spoke with him and made this decision for the squad because I believe it’s the right choice.”
Last month, the 25-year-old was initially rested due to a minor thigh injury from playing for Real Madrid. The decision quickly sparked controversy when Mbappe returned to club action for Real just days before France’s fixtures. During his absence, France defeated Israel 4-1 in Budapest and won 2-1 against Belgium. During this time Mbappe took a short trip to Stockholm. Soon after, Swedish media reported that he was being investigated for an alleged incident, which Mbappe called “fake news” and planned to address legally.
A Swedish prosecutor confirmed the investigation, though Mbappe’s name was not officially mentioned. “I won’t go into the details, but I can say two things,” Deschamps added. “Kylian wanted to be here. But this has nothing to do with any off-field issues. The presumption of innocence stands.”
Since the October break, the former PSG star has made four appearances for Real Madrid, scoring once but still appearing short of his usual dynamic form. Deschamps reiterated his decision, adding, “I stand by my choice.”
Currently, France sits second in Group A2 of the Nations League, one point behind Italy. They host Israel at the Stade de France on November 14. This is followed by a crucial game against Italy in Milan three days later. France holds a five-point lead over third-placed Belgium. After that, the top two teams will advance to the quarter-finals in March.
The squad sees the return of N’Golo Kante. He is now with Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, alongside Adrien Rabiot of Marseille. Lille’s promising goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier earns his first call-up, replacing West Ham’s Alphonse Areola.
France Squad to Face Israel and Italy:
Goalkeepers: Lucas Chevalier (Lille), Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Brice Samba (Lens)
Defenders: Jonathan Clauss (Nice), Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Wesley Fofana (Chelsea), Theo Hernandez (AC Milan), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid), Matteo Guendouzi (Lazio), N’Golo Kante (Al Ittihad), Manu Kone (Roma), Adrien Rabiot (Marseille), Warren Zaire-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain)
Forwards: Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani (Paris Saint-Germain), Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan)
With Mbappe left out of the squad, will France make it to the quarter-finals?
