Kylian Mbappé will not feature in France’s next Nations League fixture against Italy due to a minor fitness concern, as head coach Zinedine Zidane has confirmed that the Real Madrid attacker will not be risked.
The 27-year-old had been performing well individually, finding the net in Real Madrid’s La Liga win over Valencia last weekend. He then linked up with the France squad on Monday ahead of their two matches against Italy and Türkiye, but his availability has now become uncertain.
Mbappé fitness issue keeps him out of Italy match
France must take on Italy without their main attacking threat, after Zidane confirmed that Mbappé is not available for Thursday’s showdown between the two European sides.
The Real Madrid forward felt some slight discomfort, which led the French coaching staff to adopt a cautious stance instead of risking making the problem worse.
During Wednesday’s press conference, Zidane discussed the matter and stated clearly that Mbappé would not be involved in the Italy game.
“Mbappé will not play tomorrow against Italy. He has felt some minor pain. We are not going to take any risks with Mbappé,” the France head coach said.
France optimistic Mbappé will return for Türkiye fixture
Even though Mbappé has been ruled out of the Italy match, France remain hopeful that the forward will be fit in time for their second Nations League game against Türkiye on Sunday.
Zidane voiced confidence about the chance of having his key attacker available for that fixture, though his involvement will hinge on how the fitness issue progresses.
“I hope he will be able to play on Sunday against Türkiye,” Zidane added.
For the time being, France will need to cope without Mbappé against Italy, with the main priority being to avoid any unnecessary risks with the Real Madrid forward.