Mbappe’s ‘small niggle’ not serious, says Deschamps

Kylian Mbappe is receiving treatment for a “small niggle” in his right ankle after meeting up with his international teammates ahead of the latest round of 2026 World Cup qualifiers, France coach Didier Deschamps said on Oct 6.

- 

The France captain, 26, sustained the knock at the end of Real Madrid’s 3-1 La Liga home victory over Villarreal on Oct 4, casting doubts over his availability to the national team for their upcoming qualifying matches against Azerbaijan and Iceland.

“I spoke with Kylian. He had a small niggle but it’s not serious — otherwise he wouldn't be here today,’ Deschamps told reporters at the French team’s Clairefontaine base near Paris.

“We will take the time with the medical staff to assess the situation and then see how it develops.”

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate also underwent tests, after coming off injured in the Reds’ 2-1 loss at Chelsea on Oct 4. The pair are both receiving treatment.

The French Football Federation (FFF) also confirmed Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola would be sent home from Clairefontaine due to a hamstring injury.