"His love for the national team no longer needs proving" - France star comments on Kylian Mbappe's clubbing controversy
France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has spoken about his compatriot Kylian Mbappe's clubbing controversy after the superstar skipped international duty. Mbappe was not available to join the national team this month, missing their 4-1 win over Israel on October 10. He will also not partake in their upcoming game against Belgium on October 14.
Mbappe had sustained a muscle injury back last month, missing Real Madrid's LaLiga draw (1-1) against Atletico Madrid on September 29. However, he came on as a substitute in their 1-0 loss in the UEFA Champions League against Lille on October 2. He also partook in their 2-0 league win over Villarreal on October 5.
He was left out of the France squad by head coach Didier Deschamps, who opted to rest Les Bleus captain. However, Mbappe was seen visiting a nightclub and partying in Stockholm, Sweden, while France beat Israel at the Bozsik Arena in Budapest.
Fans were very upset about this, with many taking to social media to slam the 25-year-old forward for going clubbing instead of playing for his country. The controversy has since boiled over, with many weighing in, including his France and Real Madrid teammate Aurelien Tchouameni. The midfielder said to the press (via Madrid Xtra on X):
"Mbappe’s trip to Sweden? I think we’re overdoing it, we know that when it’s Kylian, it gets blown out of proportion. His love for France National Team no longer needs proving."
Indeed, Kylian Mbappe has led France to two World Cup finals, lifting the trophy in 2018. He has scored 46 goals and provided 35 assists in 86 caps for Les Bleus.
Didier Deschamps defends Kylian Mbappe after night-out controversy
France boss Didier Deschamps has come to Kylian Mbappe's defense after the forward stoked the flames of controversy with his visit to Sweden's nightlife scene. When asked about the Real Madrid star's clubbing in Stockholm while France were playing Israel, Deschamps said (via 90min):
"I don't follow the news of the players who aren't here. Kylian is on a program with his club, Real Madrid. I don't know what his program was, if he was off, if he was there or not...
"I have to manage those who are here. Kylian sent me a message before the match. Afterwards, like any player in any team, he follows the program with one day off. On days off, the players are free to do what they want."
French outlet Foot Mercato (via 90min) has claimed that Kylian Mbappe asked not to be called up for their games against Israel and Belgium. He reportedly deems Nations League fixtures as inconsequential in his chase for the 2025 Ballon d'Or.