“Please leave him alone”: France coach Didier Deschamps is clearly fed up with questions surrounding Kylian Mbappé.
As France prepares for a crucial Nations League match against Israel in Paris, Deschamps faced inquiries about his decision to exclude the Real Madrid star from the squad.
Initially, Deschamps lightened the mood by joking that he anticipated such questions would come up sooner in the press conference.
However, he quickly shifted back to a serious tone, steering clear of any lengthy discussion.
“Listen, I told you what I told you,” Deschamps stated firmly. “You are free to speak and interpret that. I have a game tomorrow. There are 23 players here. Kylian isn’t here – please leave him alone.”
Mbappé missed the last gathering of the France team due to a minor thigh injury. This time, while he is not injured, he is grappling with his form.
His recent performances have not met expectations after his summer transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid. The transition has been challenging, coinciding with a broader struggle for the Spanish club.
Since June, Mbappé has not added to his impressive tally of 48 goals for France.
Deschamps did not elaborate on his choice to leave Mbappé out but clarified that it was unrelated to recent allegations in Swedish media regarding an investigation involving the player. Mbappé’s representatives have dismissed these claims as “false and irresponsible.”
France will face Israel at home before heading to Italy three days later. Currently, Italy sits at the top of the group standings, just one point ahead of France, with Belgium in third and Israel trailing behind.
