France captain Kylian Mbappé missed training on Tuesday after developing flu-like symptoms, raising uncertainty over his availability for the team’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.
The Real Madrid forward remained at France’s training base as newly appointed head coach Zinedine Zidane took the rest of the squad through their second training session under his leadership, according to the French Football Federation.
Mbappé’s absence comes just days before France’s opening Nations League fixture against Türkiye in Kocaeli on Friday, September 25, which will mark Zidane’s first match in charge of Les Bleus.
The French captain’s condition has therefore emerged as an early concern for Zidane, who took over from Didier Deschamps following the 2026 World Cup.
Mbappé Remains at Training Base
While the rest of Zidane’s squad participated in Tuesday’s session, Mbappé stayed at the team’s training base as he managed the flu-like symptoms.
Reports from France indicate that the 27-year-old had also been monitored by the medical staff during the team’s previous session. However, there has been no confirmation that he has been ruled out of Friday’s match against Türkiye.
Mbappé remains a key figure for the French national team and was retained as captain by Zidane when the former Real Madrid manager announced his first France squad.
Zidane’s appointment has generated significant attention, with the former France midfielder beginning a new era after Deschamps’ departure following the World Cup. Zidane’s first competitive assignment will come against Türkiye at the Kocaeli Stadium.
France Face Busy Nations League Schedule
France’s Nations League campaign will continue with a trip to Belgium on September 28 before home fixtures against Italy and Belgium in October.
According to the French Football Federation’s official schedule, France will face Türkiye on September 25, Belgium away on September 28 and Italy at home on October 2, followed by another home meeting with Belgium on October 5.
For Zidane, Mbappé’s recovery will now be closely monitored as he prepares for his first game in charge of the French national team.
A decision on Mbappé’s involvement against Türkiye will depend on his condition in the days leading up to the match.
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