Kylian Mbappé (25) endured a difficult international break last month. The Real Madrid forward was booed both at his former home, the Parc des Princes, and the Groupama Stadium in Lyon. France lost in Paris, succumbing 3-1 to Italy. For the second game, captain Mbappé was relegated to the bench, however, he did come on to a chorus of boos as Les Bleus ran out 2-0 winners over Belgium.
A recent poll suggested that Mbappé’s popularity has nose-dived in France since his summer move from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid. The boos during the September international break were presumed to be a reaction to pre-match comments where he dismissed fans’ frustration with Didier Deschamps’ play-style. “It’s the least of my concerns,” said the former PSG forward ahead of the match against Italy.
Deschamps suggests Mbappé struggling with Real Madrid pressure
Mbappé, despite featuring for Los Blancos against Lille OSC in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, has been omitted from France’s latest squad. The decision was taken in conjunction with the player and his club as Mbappé continues to work back to full fitness following a hamstring injury.
However, Deschamps still spoke about his absent captain, alluding to difficulties during the previous international break. “There is no concern about his commitment,” began Deschamps in Thursday’s press conference.
“For different reasons, Kylian wasn’t in the best condition psychologically during the last international camp. The fact that he is at Real Madrid with significant expectations, the fact he didn’t have a pre-season, few matches – it wasn’t ideal. But I don’t have any doubt about Kylian’s commitment,” added the France manager.
