Injured Kylian Mbappé has been left out of France’s squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches as he continues to recover from a minor hamstring injury. This decision comes as part of a cautious approach by the French coaching staff.
Despite making a brief appearance as a second-half substitute during Real Madrid’s 1-0 defeat to Lille in the Champions League, France coach Didier Deschamps opted to exclude him from the squad after a discussion with the star player.
“I spoke with Kylian, and while his issue isn’t serious, I’m not here to take risks, which is why he won’t be in the lineup,” Deschamps explained, emphasizing the importance of player health.
France is set to face Israel on October 10, followed by a match against Belgium four days later. The absence of Mbappé could impact the team’s performance, especially considering his impressive record of 48 goals for the national team.
Deschamps noted that Mbappé’s recent form has not been up to par, as he struggled to find the back of the net in the last international fixtures against Belgium and Italy, marking a five-game scoring drought.
“He wasn’t in the best mental condition,” Deschamps remarked. “However, I have no doubts about his commitment to the team.”
In addition to Mbappé, veteran midfielder N’Golo Kanté will also miss out due to a minor adductor injury, further challenging France’s squad depth.
For the first time in a decade, Deschamps has not included Antoine Griezmann, following the Atlético Madrid forward’s retirement from international football. Deschamps expressed his admiration for Griezmann, stating, “He’s a very endearing and generous person, a leader on the field. Obviously, a page is turning.”
Griezmann leaves behind a legacy of 44 goals and a national record of 30 assists in 137 matches for Les Bleus. Deschamps acknowledged the physical and psychological fatigue that often accompanies a long career, noting that Griezmann’s decision to retire was voluntary.
France October 2024 Squad
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola (West Ham), Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Brice Simba (Lens)
Defenders: Jonathan Clauss (Nice), Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Wesley Fofana (Chelsea), Théo Hernandez (AC Milan), Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool), Jules Koundé (Barcelona), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid), Youssouf Fofana (AC Milan), Mattéo Guendouzi (Lazio), Manu Koné (Roma), Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaïre-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain)
Forwards: Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain), Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain), Randal Kolo Muani (Paris Saint-Germain), Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan)
