Zidane bets everything on Mbappé's return against Turkey

Kylian Mbappé, absent during the 3-1 defeat in Italy due to a thigh discomfort, is expected by Zinédine Zidane on Sunday at 20:45 for the reception of Turkey, the last Nations League match, and the Bleus hope for his return.

Kylian Mbappé's second match under Zinédine Zidane's management is expected to take place this Sunday, which represents the coach's greatest wish. Zidane recalled him on Thursday, after France's Bleus' defeat in Italy (3-1).

Suffering from a thigh discomfort, the French captain was rested for the trip to Milan, which ended up being Zizou's first setback since his start as manager. Although he missed this match, Mbappé did not leave the camp and remains available for the final group match in Bordeaux.

“I hope he’ll be ready for Sunday,” said Zinédine Zidane at a press conference on Thursday. He added: “In any case, that was the plan, that he could rest today because he was a bit affected and then have the possibility to play Sunday. That’s what we want.”

Cyril Hanouna denounces Zidane for excluding Mbappé from Nations League

History of Mbappé's injury

During the first camp of the season in September, Kylian Mbappé injured his left knee on a strike that had allowed him to score in Turkey (0-1). He missed the next three matches and left the Bleus' camp. This time, the injury is less serious and should allow him to get back on the pitch.

Zinédine Zidane explained on Wednesday that the player had felt a slight pain, justifying his omission in Italy. He insisted: “As usual, zero risk. These are regrettable things but they are part of the game. I hope we can have him on Sunday. I think he’s fine. The proof is that he stays with us. He’s not happy, he would have liked to play tomorrow. No risk should be taken because the season is long.”

Mbappé keeps his distance from Zidane to avoid speculation

In the absence of Kylian Mbappé as well as Ousmane Dembélé, Marcus Thuram or Esteban Lepaul, Désiré Doué was started as number 9 against the Nazionale. The Bleus quickly opened the scoring thanks to Michael Olise, before losing the thread by conceding three goals. They remain masters of their destiny to qualify for the quarter‑finals: a draw will be enough to qualify.