Kylian Mbappe will return to the French national team for their Nations League quarter-final against Croatia in March, head coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed. The 26-year-old forward, who has 86 international caps, was absent from France’s squads in October and November, but Deschamps has now put an end to any speculation about his return.
Mbappe Set for International Comeback
Mbappe’s absence from the last two international breaks raised eyebrows, especially after his high-profile move to Real Madrid in July. However, Deschamps assured fans that the star forward will be back to lead Les Bleus in the crucial Nations League quarter-final fixture.
“Of course, he’ll be there. Why wouldn’t he be?” Deschamps said in an interview with L’Equipe. “Yes, for very specific reasons, he was not with us, but he’ll be there if nothing happens to him between now and then.”
The France captain has been dealing with a demanding schedule and injuries, including back pain and a broken nose during the European Championship. However, Deschamps is confident that Mbappe is now back to his best, both physically and mentally.
“He’s very attached to the French team, even if he has had a complicated personal period. He’s back to full fitness, and you can see that in his game, and in his head too.”
Why Was Mbappe Absent from France’s Last Two Squads?
Mbappe’s absence from the October and November international squads came as a surprise, given his leadership role in the team. However, Deschamps explained that the decision was made to allow the forward to focus on adapting to Real Madrid after his summer transfer.
“Few holidays, little preparation, six complicated months in Paris, back pain, a broken nose at the Euro – these things obviously have athletic and psychological consequences, not to mention his adjustment to Madrid,” Deschamps added.
“It took some time, but it fell into place because he did everything necessary.”
The increasing number of club fixtures has also been a growing concern for players, and Mbappe himself acknowledged the challenges of the packed football calendar. Despite these difficulties, the French forward has made it clear that he remains fully committed to the national team.
Mbappe’s Leadership Role Remains Intact
With his recent absences, there were questions about whether Mbappe’s leadership role within the squad might be affected. However, Deschamps dismissed any doubts about his captaincy.
“There have always been internal discussions, individual or collective… And (the previous international break) does not call into question his leadership,” said Deschamps.
“I have no reason today to say that he will not be captain in March. But I will discuss with him, as we often do.”
Mbappe’s leadership was evident at Euro 2024, where he played through injury and helped guide France through the tournament. As he regains top form at Real Madrid, he will be expected to lead the national team with the same determination.
Mbappe’s Current Form in LaLiga
Mbappe has made a strong impact at Real Madrid, quickly becoming one of the team’s most important players. He is currently second in the LaLiga scoring charts, showing that he has adjusted well to life in Spain despite the early challenges.
His performance in Real Madrid’s 3-2 win over Manchester City in the Champions League midweek was a testament to his quality, proving that he is back to his best ahead of his international return.
With crucial club fixtures coming up, including El Clasico against Barcelona, Mbappe’s form could play a key role in determining Real Madrid’s success this season.
Didier Deschamps’ Future and Zidane’s Potential Appointment
Deschamps has been in charge of the French national team since 2012, making him France’s longest-serving coach. However, the French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed last month that Deschamps will not seek to renew his contract beyond 2026.
Didier Deschamps: “Zinedine Zidane as next France head coach? Well, he’s a very good candidate”, told L’Équipé. pic.twitter.com/up8e0cE4nQ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 13, 2025
FFF President Philippe Diallo stated that it is too soon to name a replacement, but Deschamps has already expressed support for Zinedine Zidane as his potential successor.
“Zizou is a very strong candidate, a natural one, and I would add, an expected one. After that, it’s up to him and the chairman,” Deschamps said.
“There’s a lot of respect between us. We last saw each other in the summer of 2023, and we plan to meet again next summer.”
Zidane, who won three consecutive Champions League titles as Real Madrid manager, has long been linked with the France job. While he has remained out of club management for the last few years, his return to the national team would be widely welcomed by both players and fans.
What’s Next for France and Mbappe?
With Mbappe set to return to the squad in March, France will look to continue their strong run in the Nations League and push for another international trophy.
Their quarter-final clash against Croatia will be a challenging test, as the 2018 World Cup finalists remain one of Europe’s most disciplined teams.
With Deschamps still at the helm and Mbappe leading the attack, France will aim to secure a semi-final spot and build momentum ahead of their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign.
All eyes will be on Mbappe as he looks to continue his sensational form and guide France to yet another major tournament success.
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