Mbappé to Miss Italy Match, Zidane Confirms

Zinedine Zidane confirmed that Kylian Mbappé will not play for France against Italy in the Nations League after feeling muscular discomfort. He made the announcement at a press conference before Wednesday’s match.

Zidane explained that Mbappé had wanted to play at San Siro, but the French national team decided not to take a risk with him. The Real Madrid striker will remain with the national team squad, in the hope that he will be available for Sunday’s match against Turkey; his participation remains uncertain.

Zidane said that France’s captain was disappointed to miss the match against Italy, but seemed generally fine. He also noted that the pressure of clubs’ schedules, including league and Champions League matches, adds to players’ burdens, as the national team prepares to play without him.