Arsenal legend Robert Pires offers opinion on rumours of Didier Deschamps' fall out with Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe
Robert Pires has dismissed rumors that there is a conflict between Kylian Mbappe and France manager Didier Deschamps. He believes that the striker remains an important player for the national team and deserves a break.
Speaking to the media via MARCA, Pires stated that Deschamps made the call to keep Mbappe out of the France national team. He believes that there is no conflict or crisis between the two and said:
"There is no conflict between Mbappé and Deschamps. Mbappé is simply not showing his usual level of performance at the moment, and Deschamps informed him over the phone that he would not be called up to the national team. Mbappé is a very important player for France, and in my opinion, giving him a break right now is not a problem or a crisis."
Kylian Mbappe has not been picked for the France squad in the last two international breaks. The Real Madrid star was left out last month because of an injury issue. The striker has been out of form, and that led to him being left out this week.
Kylian Mbappe told to adapt at Real Madrid amid criticism from fans
Robert Pires has told Kylian Mbappe that the criticism he is facing from Real Madrid fans is normal. He added that the Frenchman needs to learn how to play well with his teammates, saying:
"Mbappe must face these criticisms, change his style of play, recognize that he is not at his best and improve his performance. Mbappe dreamed of playing for Real Madrid. He knows perfectly well that Vinícius, who is an exceptional player, plays in the same position as him, is decisive and scores a lot of goals. Mbappe must adapt to this situation and to the different tactics of the team. Turning down Real Madrid is difficult for any player."
He added:
“He is facing strong criticism in both France and Spain, as he is not at his best. Currently, he is not decisive for Real Madrid and is not scoring or creating many goal-scoring opportunities. Real Madrid fans had high expectations for Mbappé since his arrival at the Merengue team. However, changing country, team and teammates is not easy, especially when it comes to a club with the best players on the planet."
Kylian Mbappe was caught offside a record eight times in El Clasico, and that saw Real Madrid lose the match at home. Barcelona managed to thrash them 4-0 to extend their lead at the top of the table to six points.