Mbappé Faces Dilemma Over Return to French National Team
Kylian Mbappé finds himself in a difficult situation, as he has until Wednesday to decide whether to accept an offer to return to the French national team. His potential return to Les Bleus has stirred up significant attention, as the team prepares for the upcoming international window. The Real Madrid star will have to face the French media again after several months of absence from the national team, and it seems likely he will do so as team captain—a noteworthy milestone given the traditions upheld by coach Didier Deschamps since taking charge.
Deschamps has expressed confidence in Mbappé’s return, stating that the forward is physically fit and mentally prepared to take on the captain’s role, despite having faced personal difficulties recently. “Of course, he’ll be there. Why wouldn’t he be? He has a strong bond with the French national team, even though he’s gone through a complicated personal period. He has recovered his physical form, and it shows in his play and mindset. As of today, I have no reason to say that he won’t be captain in March,” said Deschamps, while acknowledging that any changes would come after a conversation with Mbappé.
Mbappé Has the Final Say
The French national team is set to play Croatia in the Nations League quarterfinals on Thursday, a competition where Spain is defending its title. Traditionally, the French captain speaks to the media the day before the match, which means Mbappé would have to hold a press conference on Wednesday, facing the same French media that has been critical of him in recent months. While this may seem like a straightforward task, the scrutiny surrounding his figure in France has been intense.
Real Madrid is aware that Mbappé must decide whether to speak to the press or let another teammate take the spotlight, allowing him to focus on the game itself. Mbappé now faces a difficult decision ahead of his first match with France since September 2024, as he navigates the challenges surrounding his return to international duty.
