Could Real Madrid slow down Kylian Mbappé’s involvement with the France national team? The question is becoming increasingly serious ahead of the next international gathering of Les Bleus.
Suffering from a left knee issue, the French striker could miss the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Colombia in the United States. On the Madrid side, caution is the priority. Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa has even warned that the club will make the final decision regarding the player’s participation after the match against Atlético Madrid.
Real Madrid wants the final say on Mbappé’s participation
“He’s getting better and better, his progress is in line with our expectations. We have established a plan that will depend on how he evolves, but I find him in very good shape. He won’t be there on Saturday (against Elche in La Liga), but I’m convinced he will be available for the trip to Manchester,” the Spanish coach said during a press conference on Friday.
“If Mbappé has to play for France in the upcoming March matches against Brazil and Colombia? We’ll see how he feels after the game against Atlético Madrid, and then we will make our decision,” added the Real Madrid manager.
However, Les Bleus still need their captain, even if he does not play. According to RMC, the French captain is expected to attend media duties and marketing operations during the U.S. tour. In other words, Mbappé could travel with the team more as an ambassador than as a goal scorer. A situation that could irritate Madrid, as the club would clearly prefer to see its striker rest and recover from his injury.
It remains to be seen whether Real Madrid will allow Mbappé to join the national team, even without putting on his boots… or if the club decides to keep full control over its player. Such a move could create serious tension with Didier Deschamps’ staff, the French Football Federation and its sponsors—and possibly even FIFA.
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