November 7th 2024.
France's upcoming international break has seen Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe being dropped from the squad by manager Didier Deschamps. Mbappe, who was named as France's captain last year, had missed the team's last two Nations League matches due to a thigh injury sustained while playing for Madrid. However, despite being fit and available for selection, the 25-year-old has now been left out of the squad for their upcoming games against Israel and Italy.
Deschamps has taken full responsibility for this decision, describing it as a "one-off". The manager has had discussions with Mbappe and believes that it is better for him to not be a part of the squad at this time. He also wants to give other forwards a chance to play and believes that it is important to stick to the course he has set for the team. This includes giving playing time to young players who have impressed in the last gathering.
The manager also addressed the speculation that Mbappe's exclusion may be related to the ongoing rape investigation in Sweden. He made it clear that this was not a factor in his decision and that he believes in the presumption of innocence. Deschamps wants to ensure the team's qualification for the final eight and to be in a position to compete for first place, which is why he has selected a squad that he believes can achieve this.
The France squad for the upcoming games includes goalkeepers Mike Maignan, Brice Samba, and Lucas Chevalier. The defense will be led by players like Jonathan Clauss, Lucas Digne, and Dayot Upamecano. In midfield, the team will have the likes of N'Golo Kante, Adrien Rabiot, and young talents like Eduardo Camavinga and Matteo Guendouzi. The forward line will feature players like Ousmane Dembele and Marcus Thuram.
Deschamps also addressed the media and the fans, saying that he understands their disappointment and that he takes full responsibility for his decision. He wants to avoid any arguments or speculations and has had direct discussions with Mbappe about the situation. He acknowledges that they may not agree on certain subjects, but it is ultimately his responsibility to make decisions for the team.
Meanwhile, former France winger Jerome Rothen believes that the decision to drop Mbappe from the squad will not be accepted by the players. He feels that the team's leader and captain not being a part of the squad will have an impact on the team's morale. Rothen believes that it will be difficult for the team to understand why Mbappe is not with them and that this may lead to tension in the locker room.
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