France manager Didier Deschamps has downplayed concerns regarding Kylian Mbappe’s recent visit to a Swedish nightclub.
After Mbappe missed Real Madrid’s match against city rivals Atletico due to injury, Deschamps cited fitness issues when excluding the forward from the France squad for the October international break. However, Mbappe quickly returned to the spotlight by starting in Real Madrid’s victory over Villarreal shortly after.
The controversy intensified when Mbappe was seen at a Swedish nightclub on Thursday, the same night France played Israel, leading some to accuse the 25-year-old of neglecting his international responsibilities.
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When asked about the situation, Deschamps told reporters, “I don’t follow the news of the players who aren’t here. Kylian is on a program with his club, Real Madrid. I’m not aware of his schedule, whether he was off or not… My focus is on managing those who are present. Kylian sent me a message before the match. Afterwards, like any player in any team, he follows the program, which includes one day off. On those days, players are free to do as they wish.”
Deschamps expressed support for Mbappe, and Foot Mercato later reported that Mbappe had informed the France setup that he did not wish to be considered for this international break or any other non-essential fixtures, as he aims to stay in top condition for his pursuit of the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
The issue has dominated discussions around the France team this week, with several players publicly defending the under-fire Madrid star.
“Everyone can do what they want with their free time,” said Chelsea center-back Wesley Fofana regarding the matter. “It hasn’t been a topic of discussion; I haven’t heard anything about it. He does what he wants. He’s a grown man, a great professional, and he manages his career as he sees fit.
“Being a top player for France, it’s normal that he receives a lot of media attention and is in the spotlight. Are we making too much of it? I don’t know. That’s for him to decide. But it does feel like sometimes it goes a bit overboard. You could ask Kylian Mbappe for more details.”