Mbappe left out of France squad

AFP | Paris

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Coach Deschamps: "It’s for the Best"

Kylian Mbappe has been left out of the French national squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League clashes against Israel and Italy. National team coach Didier Deschamps stated that the decision to omit the Real Madrid star “is for the best,” as Mbappe misses his second consecutive call-up. The France captain was also absent from last month’s squad for the double-header against Israel and Belgium.

“I have spoken with him, and this is a decision I’ve made for this get-together because I believe it’s the right choice,” Deschamps told reporters during a press conference in Paris.

Injury and Controversy Follow October Absence

The 25-year-old forward was initially rested last month to help him recover from a minor thigh injury picked up while playing for Real Madrid. However, controversy quickly emerged when he returned to play for his club just days later, before France's matches had even begun.

During France’s 4-1 victory over Israel in Budapest and their 2-1 win in Belgium, Mbappe was absent, choosing instead to take a short break in Stockholm. While there, Swedish media reported that Mbappe was under investigation for alleged rape—an accusation he strongly denied, calling the claims “fake news.” His lawyer confirmed that legal action for libel would be pursued. Swedish prosecutors later confirmed an investigation had begun but did not name Mbappe directly.

“I am not going to set out my argument, but I can say two things: Kylian wanted to come, and this decision is not related to any off-field issues because the presumption of innocence stands,” Deschamps clarified.

Return to Form and Club Performance

Since last month’s break, the former Paris Saint-Germain forward has played four matches for Real Madrid, scoring once, though he remains below his peak form. Deschamps emphasized his final decision: “I don’t want to say any more about it. I stand by my choice.”

France's Nations League Path

France currently sits in second place in Group A2, trailing group leaders Italy by a single point as they head into their final two group matches. They will face Israel at the Stade de France on November 14, followed by a match against Italy in Milan three days later. France holds a five-point lead over Belgium, and the top two teams will qualify for the quarter-finals, scheduled for March. The semi-finals and final are set for June.

Squad Updates: Kante, Rabiot, and Chevalier Join the Team

Veteran midfielder N’Golo Kante, now playing for Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, returns to the national team alongside Adrien Rabiot from Marseille. In goal, Lille's rising star Lucas Chevalier earns his first call-up, replacing West Ham United’s Alphonse Areola.