Kylian Mbappé has officially been named in Didier Deschamps’ squad for France’s UEFA Nations League quarterfinals against Croatia, marking his return to Les Bleus after more than six months away.
The highly anticipated fixtures, set for March 20 in Split and March 23 at the Stade de France, will see the French captain back in action after missing previous international matches due to a combination of physical and mental struggles.
Mbappé Retains Captaincy Despite Absence
Speculation surrounded Mbappé’s leadership role following his extended absence from the squad. However, Deschamps confirmed that the 26-year-old forward would continue to wear the captain’s armband.
“I spoke to him, I discussed it with him,” Deschamps said. “He will be captain.”
Mbappé, who scored a historic hat trick in the 2022 World Cup final, remains a crucial figure for France. He is currently third on the nation’s all-time scoring list with 48 goals, trailing only Thierry Henry (51) and Olivier Giroud (57).
The Real Madrid star was previously left out of France’s squad for Nations League matches against Israel and Italy last November. At the time, Deschamps stated,
“It’s better that way,” referring to Mbappé’s struggles both physically and mentally.
Additionally, a minor thigh injury kept him out of a prior squad gathering, though he continued playing for Real Madrid. His last international appearance came on September 9, 2023, against Belgium.
Also See: Kylian Mbappé Opens Up About Real Madrid Struggles, PSG Exit, and France National Team Absence
Off-Field Controversy Resolved
Mbappé’s return follows a period of turbulence off the pitch. In December, Swedish authorities dropped an alleged rape investigation in Stockholm that was reported to involve him.
Mbappé later expressed his disbelief over the situation, stating that he had never even been contacted by law enforcement.
Strong Squad for the Quarterfinals
France’s squad for the upcoming matches features a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. Alongside Mbappé, key names such as Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Ousmane Dembélé return to the lineup.
Deschamps has also included young Paris Saint-Germain forward Désiré Doué, who has impressed with his performances, particularly in PSG’s Champions League last-16 victory over Liverpool.
Full France Squad for Nations League Quarterfinals vs. Croatia
Goalkeepers:
Mike Maignan (AC Milan)
Lucas Chevalier (Lille)
Brice Samba (Rennes)
Defenders:
Jonathan Clauss (Nice)
Jules Koundé (FC Barcelona)
William Saliba (Arsenal)
Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool)
Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)
Benjamin Pavard (Inter Milan)
Theo Hernández (AC Milan)
Lucas Digne (Aston Villa)
Midfielders:
Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid)
Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid)
Matteo Guendouzi (Lazio)
Manu Koné (AS Roma)
Adrien Rabiot (Marseille)
Warren Zaïre-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain)
Forwards:
Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Désiré Doué (PSG)
Bradley Barcola (PSG)
Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)
Randal Kolo Muani (Juventus)
Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan)
A Crucial Test for Les Bleus
The upcoming quarterfinal clash against Croatia will be a significant test for France as they seek to advance in the UEFA Nations League. With Mbappé back in the squad, Deschamps will hope to leverage his speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability to secure victory.
