UEFA Nations League: Kylian Mbappe misses out from France squad

Kylian Mbappe has been excluded from the France squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Israel and Italy, with coach Didier Deschamps explaining that the decision was made "for the best." The omission of the Real Madrid superstar marks the second consecutive France squad that Mbappe has missed, following his absence from the October double-header against Israel and Belgium. Deschamps has remained tight-lipped about the specific reasons behind the decision, but the French coach emphasized that the move is in the best interest of both Mbappe and the national team. The star forward, who has been in exceptional form for club and country, has been dealing with various challenges, both on and off the pitch, and Deschamps believes that his absence will allow him time to focus on his well-being and return refreshed for upcoming fixtures.

This latest snub has sparked speculation about Mbappe’s relationship with the French Football Federation and his future with the national team. However, Deschamps has reiterated that the door remains open for the 25-year-old and that the decision was made with long-term goals in mind. With France looking to maintain their strong form in the Nations League, Deschamps will rely on the rest of the squad to step up in Mbappe’s absence as they face two crucial fixtures against Israel and Italy.

"I have spoken with him and I have made the decision for this get-together because I think it is for the best," Deschamps told reporters at a press conference in Paris.

Kylian Mbappe, 25, was initially rested for France’s matches last month to recover from a minor thigh injury he sustained while playing for Real Madrid. However, controversy arose when he returned to action for Real Madrid just days before France’s fixtures. Mbappe missed France's 4-1 win over Israel in Budapest and their 2-1 victory in Belgium, opting instead to take a short break in Stockholm with his entourage.

Following the trip, Swedish media reported that Mbappe was under investigation for an alleged rape, a claim the player vehemently denied, calling it “fake news.” His lawyer also announced plans to pursue legal action for libel. While the Swedish prosecutor confirmed an investigation was underway, Mbappé’s name was not officially mentioned. With France sitting second in Nations League Group A2, one point behind leaders Italy, they have two crucial fixtures ahead. France will host Israel at the Stade de France on November 14, followed by a match against Italy in Milan three days later. The top two teams from the group will qualify for next March’s quarter-finals.

France squad for games against Italy, Israel

Goalkeepers: Lucas Chevalier (Lille), Mike Maignan (AC Milan/ITA), Brice Samba (Lens)

Defenders: Jonathan Clauss (Nice), Lucas Digne (Aston Villa/ENG), Wesley Fofana (Chelsea/ENG), Theo Hernandez (AC Milan/ITA), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool/ENG), Jules Kounde (Barcelona/ESP), William Saliba (Arsenal/ENG), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich/GER)

Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid/ESP), Matteo Guendouzi (Lazio/ITA), N'Golo Kante (Al Ittihad/KSA), Manu Kone (Roma/ITA), Adrien Rabiot (Marseille), Warren Zaire-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain)

Forwards: Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani (Paris Saint-Germain), Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea/ENG), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich/GER), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan/ITA)