France NT coach breaks silence on Mbappe’s European escapade – “Free to do what he wants’ | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappe’s recent outing in Stockholm during France’s match against Israel has triggered significant criticism in France, raising questions about his dedication to the national team.

As the captain of the World Cup runners-up, many expected his focus to be solely on the team, even if he was not playing. However, his presence at a dinner in Sweden on the same night has led to doubts about his commitment.

The criticism primarily stems from the fact that while France were competing against Israel, Mbappe was photographed entering a restaurant in Stockholm with his former teammate, Nordi Mukiele.

This incident has caused a stir, with the media and fans questioning why Mbappe chose to spend his time in Sweden rather than supporting his national team, despite not being included in the squad for the current international break.

Deschamps does not care

Kylian Mbappe caused major controversy. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

However, France manager Didier Deschamps has downplayed the situation. Speaking in an interview, Deschamps clarified that Mbappe was not part of the squad due to an agreement with both the player and his club, which allowed him time off for rest.

“A night out for Mbappe? Kylian is following a programme with his club, Real Madrid, so I don’t know if he went out, if he was there or not,” he was quoted by AS.

Deschamps explained that players, when given time off by their clubs, are free to spend it as they wish. He added that Mbappe had informed him before the match and was following a programme set by Real Madrid, which permitted him this break.

The manager emphasised that if players have agreed to rest days, they are not obligated to be with the national team.

“What I can say is that Kylian sent me a message before the match (against Israel).

“Afterwards, like any player of his club, he follows a programme. With or without days off. If the players have days off, they are free to do what they want,” he added.

Despite the media uproar, Mbappe’s absence from the France squad and his trip to Stockholm appears to have been pre-arranged, with no breach of commitments on his part. However, the optics of the situation have certainly stirred debate.