Mbappe omitted from France squad for UEFA Nations League

Kylian Mbappe has been sidelined from the France squad set to face Israel and Belgium in the UEFA Nations League during the October international break.

This decision was made by Didier Deschamps, the national side’s manager, to help Mbappe fully recover from a thigh issue.

The France skipper sustained the injury during Real Madrid’s 3-2 win over Deportivo Alaves more than a week ago, forcing him to miss last Sunday’s Madrid derby in La Liga.

Initially ruled out of action for three weeks, Mbappe came on as a substitute during Wednesday’s surprise 1-0 defeat away to Ligue 1 side Lille in the Champions League.

Speaking to the press on Thursday, Deschamps emphasised that he won’t be taking any risks with Mbappe.

“I spoke with Kylian about the situation, which is still uncertain after coming on as a substitute on Wednesday,” he said.

“He has a match on Saturday and there are questions.

“He has a problem which is not serious but he needs treatment to recover properly. I am not here to take risks. That is why Kylian is not here.”

It’s uncertain whether Mbappe — Real Madrid’s top scorer with seven goals in all competitions — will be selected by Merengues manager Carlo Ancelotti this weekend.

Madrid welcome Villarreal to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium on Saturday, with online bookmakers paying -384.62 for the Blancos to cruise past their guests (+900).

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