Kylian Mbappe, the captain of France, is facing criticism in his home country for choosing not to participate in Les Bleus’ Nations League matches against Israel and Belgium, despite his availability to play for Real Madrid.
After suffering a muscle injury last month, the forward made his comeback on the pitch during the Champions League match last Wednesday.
In a notable decision, France coach Didier Deschamps excluded Kylian Mbappe from the squad he revealed on Thursday. Deschamps cited the 25-year-old’s insufficient preparation, attributing it to a lack of matchplay.
Kylian Mbappe made his debut for Real Madrid in their La Liga match against Villarreal on Saturday.
“If you’re injured, you won’t play for your club and won’t be selected for the national team,” former France international Maxime Bossis stated in an interview with French sports daily L’Equipe on Monday.
Coming off the bench in the Champions League and then starting in a league match can create a sense of uncertainty. He stands out as a remarkable athlete. We understand that despite Michel Platini’s injury, there remained a desire for his presence among us.
Kylian Mbappe’s circumstances have become increasingly intricate, as he now serves as the captain of the national team, a role he assumed over Antoine Griezmann. This development comes on the heels of Griezmann’s recent announcement regarding his retirement from international football.
Antoine Griezmann’s dedication to the French national team has been unequivocal, as the Atletico Madrid striker achieved an impressive milestone by participating in 84 consecutive matches for his country from 2017 to 2024.
In an interview with L’Equipe, Fabien Bonnet, the spokesperson for the Irresistibles Francais, the leading supporters’ group in France, stated that Mbappe has failed to set an example for the fans as a captain.
“The departure of Antoine Griezmann marks the end of an era for the team, revealing the absence of its true captain.”
France, currently in second place in Group A, will play Israel in Budapest on Thursday before traveling to Belgium the following Monday.
