France manager Didier Deschamps has hinted that Real Madrid might have played a role in preventing Kylian Mbappe from joining the national team for the UEFA Nations League matches in October. Despite being one of France’s key players, Mbappe did not report for international duty, and the decision has sparked widespread speculation.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Deschamps addressed the situation, explaining that Mbappe’s absence was a decision made in the best interest of both the player and his club. The Real Madrid attacker, who transferred from Paris Saint-Germain during the summer, was apparently advised to take a break during the international window.
Deschamps made it clear that neither Mbappe nor his national team had any intention of conflicting with Real Madrid’s wishes. “One must prioritise the interest of the player without putting him in difficulties with his club,” the France coach said, as reported by Madrid Universal. This comment points to the delicate balance that exists between a player’s commitments to both their club and their national team.
While national teams often rely on their star players for international competitions, clubs tend to prioritize their players’ well-being and fitness, particularly as they invest heavily in these athletes. Deschamps acknowledged this tension, stating, “The interests of clubs and the interests of national teams necessarily diverge at some point, and we must not forget that the employer is the club, not the federation.”
The French coach was also quick to dispel any notion that Mbappe himself was against joining his national side. According to Deschamps, the 24-year-old forward would never oppose either Real Madrid or France, emphasizing that the final decision was made with the player’s best interests in mind. “I know very well that he will not go against his club and does not want to go against the national team,” Deschamps added, illustrating Mbappe’s commitment to both his club and country.
The absence of Mbappe, one of the world’s best footballers, naturally draws significant attention. However, Deschamps urged the media and fans not to overemphasize the situation. “Mbappe attracts a lot of attention; we should not give it so much importance but rather see it more generally,” he noted, implying that while the player’s absence is notable, it is not uncommon for clubs to exert influence over national team decisions, especially when it comes to protecting their top players from injury.
Mbappe has been a central figure in French football for several years, playing a pivotal role in their World Cup victory in 2018 and their strong showings in subsequent international tournaments. His recent move to Real Madrid has only heightened the attention surrounding his career, with many watching to see how he balances his commitments to one of Europe’s biggest clubs and his national team.
Deschamps’ comments reflect the ongoing struggle national teams face when dealing with clubs, particularly elite European clubs like Real Madrid, which often prefer to keep their players rested and injury-free during international breaks. The French coach pointed out that clubs are often reluctant to release their players for international duty, especially if there is a risk of injury. “Clubs have always resisted the idea of the player going to the national team and taking risks, and I am not here to take risks,” Deschamps said, signaling his understanding of Real Madrid’s position.
For Mbappe, this international break may serve as a much-needed period of rest after a long and demanding football season. Having joined Real Madrid as a marquee signing, the forward has faced immense pressure to perform at the highest level in both domestic and international competitions. With Real Madrid aiming to compete on all fronts this season, including La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, the club likely saw this break as an opportunity for Mbappe to recover and recharge.
As for France, Deschamps will have to adjust his squad in Mbappe’s absence. The UEFA Nations League is a critical competition for national teams, but the French manager seems confident that his team can manage without their star forward for now. Deschamps’ pragmatic approach—focusing on player welfare and avoiding unnecessary risks—shows his long-term perspective, as both the player and the team will benefit from having a fully fit Mbappe available for future competitions.
While the decision to keep Mbappe out of the French squad may disappoint fans hoping to see him in action during the Nations League matches, it is clear that Deschamps and Real Madrid are working together to protect the player’s long-term fitness and career. Both parties recognize the importance of ensuring that Mbappe is not overworked, especially as he is a crucial asset for both his club and country.
As the football season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Mbappe manages the dual responsibilities of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs and continuing to lead his national team. For now, however, both Real Madrid and France seem committed to ensuring that the young forward remains in peak condition, even if it means sitting out important international fixtures.
