Mbappe Out: France Takes a Cautious Approach with Star Striker
Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe will be sidelined for France’s upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Israel and Belgium on October 10th and 14th. The French Football Federation confirmed that the star striker, who recently returned from a left thigh injury, will not be risked for the crucial fixtures.
Head coach Didier Deschamps, speaking at a press conference, emphasized the decision was precautionary. “I spoke with Kylian, of course. He has a problem that is not serious, but it requires treatment so that he can recover well. I’m not here to take risks, and that’s why Kylian was not included in the squad,” Deschamps explained.
Mbappe’s absence presents an opportunity for other attacking talents to shine. Deschamps has called upon a potent frontline featuring the likes of PSG trio Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, and Randal Kolo Muani, alongside Bayern Munich’s formidable Michael Cuisance and Inter Milan’s in-form Marcus Thuram.
This cautious approach to Mbappe’s recovery highlights the delicate balance coaches face in managing player fitness, especially with the grueling club and international schedule. The French national team, currently ranked [FIFA Ranking], will be hoping Mbappe can regain full fitness for their upcoming [Next Major Tournament] campaign.
A New Generation Steps Up
Mbappe’s absence coincides with a period of transition for the French national team. Veteran midfielder N’Golo Kanté will also miss the upcoming matches due to a groin injury. This opens the door for younger players to make their mark on the international stage.
Deschamps has placed his faith in a youthful midfield contingent, including Youssouf Fofana, Mattéo Guendouzi, Manu Koné, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and the highly-rated 18-year-old Warren Zaïre-Emery. This blend of experience and youthful exuberance will be tested against tough opposition in Israel and Belgium.
Full France Squad List:
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola (West Ham), Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Brice Samba (Lens)
Defenders: Jonathan Clauss (Nice), Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Wesley Fofana (Chelsea), Theo Hernandez (AC Milan), Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool), Jules Koundé (Barcelona), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)
Midfielders: Youssouf Fofana (AC Milan), Manu Koné (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga (both Real Madrid), Warren Zaïre-Emery (PSG), Mattéo Guendouzi (Lazio)
Forwards: Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, Randal Kolo Muani (all PSG), Michael Cuisance (Bayern Munich), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan), Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea)
The upcoming Nations League matches provide a valuable opportunity for Deschamps to assess his squad depth and tactical flexibility. While Mbappe’s absence is undoubtedly a blow, it allows for experimentation and the emergence of new stars within the French national team setup.
