Didier Deschamps, the French national team coach, addressed the media after announcing the squad for the upcoming matches against Italy and Israel, also explaining Kylian Mbappé‘s absence. The coach confirmed that the forward wanted to be called up for Les Bleus, but he chose not to include him after a private meeting with the player. The decision, therefore, is purely tactical.

Deschamps explains missing Mbappé

“I’ve had several conversations with him. I thought it over and made this decision for this camp. I believe it’s better this way. I’m not going to debate it.

“I can tell you two things: Kylian wanted to come, and it’s not off-field issues that play a part here as long as the presumption of innocence exists. This is a specific choice for this camp, with two matches ahead,” Deschamps said when asked about the decision.

The coach also added that he does not want further interpretations regarding Mbappé’s absence from the French squad.

“It’s my decision, and it’s better this way. I understand if that’s not enough for you, but I’m not going to engage in a discussion that leads to interpretations. I have nothing more to add; I stand by this decision. In absolute terms, I can decide until 1:59 p.m. [the list was announced at 2:00 p.m.]. The deadline is when I speak to you. It doesn’t really matter. The main thing is that the decision is made by the time I’m here,” he declared.

Deschamps confirmed that he had several conversations with Mbappé before deciding not to call him up.

“I’ve had conversations with him, but I won’t go into that. You [the journalist] may have information or not, but I speak directly with Kylian. We may disagree on certain topics, but it’s my responsibility to make decisions. This is the one I’ve made for this camp. I repeat: because it’s better this way.”

Mbappé‘s goals to return

When asked if the absence relates to performance, he added, “That’s not the topic to discuss right now. He’s part of a team. Everyone has their analysis, which they then develop. As for his captaincy, what happens next will happen in due time. I won’t address something that’s not relevant at this moment, in November. Everything in due time.”

His role as a central forward at Real Madrid was also discussed during the press conference.

“He’s done it before, in Paris. Also with us. He can play in different systems, and it’s always been that way. He’s scored goals before and will do so again. He’s going through a period where he’s less effective, obviously. He’s judged a lot for that, and it’s understandable,” said Deschamps.

Deschamps and the French players

“We may not agree on everything. These are discussions I can have with players. I’m not here for the players to tell me I’m the best and the most handsome. I listen to them. I’ve always had these conversations, whether individually or collectively, to protect all players.

That’s why I can have many discussions that go beyond the playing field, because they know very well who has spoken if something leaks. These exchanges of opinions are important to me. With the benefit of hindsight, calm, and as much clarity as possible, I make the decisions I believe are best.”