Tensions between France and Mbappé: Zidane keeps striker out of squad
Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid striker, has withdrawn from the Nations League match against Italy, scheduled for Thursday evening at the San Siro. Despite this withdrawal, France manager Zinedine Zidane has decided to keep him in the squad of Les Bleus. This decision, considered unpopular by the captain, fuels the first tensions between the two men.
Spanish journalist Marcos Benito, appearing on the programme El Chiringuito, said that Zidane's choice would not please the captain of Les Bleus. He added that Mbappé had anticipated a return to Madrid and had signed an agreement with Real Madrid's medical department to join Valdebebas at the first sign of any physical issue. A private jet was even waiting in Paris to bring him back to the club.
Zidane, however, preferred to keep his striker, even though he is dealing with hamstring problems and will not take part in the fixture against Italy. The manager hopes to have him available on Sunday against Turkey and will monitor his physical condition before making a final decision. He wants to avoid any unnecessary risk.
Zidane misses Mbappé vs Italy, hopes for Turkey's recovery in Bordeaux
Marcos Benito said: “All this is starting to create some tension in their relationship,” while noting that no public dispute had been confirmed.
When questioned at a press conference, “Zizou” acknowledged the captain’s disappointment at missing the match against Italy, but praised his mindset and reminded: “When you have a feeling, you take zero risk.”
Cyril Hanouna denounces Zidane for excluding Mbappé from Nations League
Since taking charge, Zidane has hardly been able to rely on Mbappé, who played only fifty‑four minutes during the previous break after being injured in Turkey, where he scored the 1‑0 goal. The player did not train yesterday, which has reignited concerns due to hamstring pain. The idea is that he stays at Clairefontaine to recover in order to try to be available on Sunday against Turkey in Bordeaux.