Mbappé's Minor Ankle Injury Not Serious, France Coach Deschamps Confirms Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

Kylian Mbappé, captain of the French national football team, is dealing with a minor right ankle issue sustained during Real Madrid's recent match against Villarreal, where he scored before the injury occurred. According to coach Didier Deschamps, the injury is not serious and not expected to be a hindrance for upcoming matches. Deschamps emphasized that medical staff are conducting thorough assessments and more information will follow once the players arrive for training. Alongside Mbappé, defender Ibrahima Konaté is also being evaluated after an injury sustained playing for Liverpool against Chelsea. Despite these concerns, both players remain with the French squad and are receiving treatment.

France currently leads their World Cup 2026 qualification group with two wins. They prepare to face Azerbaijan at Parc des Princes on Friday, followed by a match against Iceland on Monday. Deschamps highlighted the importance of these fixtures and touched upon the squad's readiness, including the integration of younger players. Although other players like Bradley Barcola are sidelined due to chronic injuries, the core French squad, including Mbappé and Konaté, is poised for the upcoming matches.

Deschamps told the media at Clairefontaine that he will have clearer updates after medical evaluations and player arrivals, underlining that Mbappé's "minor problem is not disabling." The team is focused on maintaining their top spot in the qualification group while managing player fitness and injuries.