"This is a question for Deschamps." Mbappé explained why he is not playing for the national team
Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé opened up about his complex relationship with France's head coach Didier Deschamps. The forward has not played for the national team since September, missing their October and November matches.
Details: These absences sparked intense debate in Madrid and Paris, raising questions about his future as captain of the French team. The October omission was attributed to an injury and an agreement with Deschamps to allow him recovery time. However, the November decision lacked a clear explanation.
Both Deschamps and Mbappé referred to it as the coach’s decision but refrained from providing detailed comments. Speaking to Canal TV, Mbappé addressed the situation, leaving fans with more questions than answers.
Quote: “For me, the French national team always comes first. I asked Deschamps not to call me in September as I had just moved to Madrid, wasn’t feeling fully fit, and had barely any time to rest.
Why wasn’t I called up in November? That was the coach’s decision. I can’t explain the reasons—if he wants to, he can share them. I’m not allowed to. I wanted to play in November, but I respected his decision not to include me.”
Now, Mbappé awaits Deschamps’ call for the Nations League quarterfinal against Croatia in March 2025. Should France advance, the final could take place in June, just a week before the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
Alex Olise
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
