by France manager Didier Deschamps has explained his decision to leave Kylian Mbappe out of his squad for this month’s UEFA Nations League double-header.
The Blues host Israel next Thursday before traveling to Italy three days later for what promises to be the clash that will decide the winner of Group A2. However, they will have to do it without the help of the Real Madrid superstar.
This was also the case last month as the 25-year-old was not selected by Deschamps, although it was simply a precaution given he was just returning from injury.
But given that Mbappé was due to return to the squad this month, it is somewhat surprising that he was not included.
Speaking at a press conference to clarify the situation, Deschamps revealed he had made the decision not to call up the French captain.
“I had discussions with him, it’s a decision I made for this block of matches only,” he said. “Kylian wanted to come.”
This decision is ultimately excellent news for Real Madrid since the striker should benefit from not participating in an international mission and therefore be ready to face Leganes on November 24.
Despite scoring on his debut for Los Blancos against Atalanta in the Super Cup and scoring eight times in 15 appearances in all competitions, Mbappe has struggled for consistency since leaving the Paris Saint-Germain, finding the back of the net once in its last five. exits.
In his absence for the French team, Deschamps named Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku, Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise, Inter’s Marcus Thuram and PSG trio Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembele and Randal Kolo Muani as striker options.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s William Saliba, Blues defender Wesley Fofana, Aston Villa left-back Lucas Digne and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate are the other Premier League representatives in the 23-man squad.
