FFF President addresses controversy over Kylian Mbappe’s omission from France squad

French Football Federation (FFF) president Ibrahim Diallo has spoken out regarding the recent controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s exclusion from Didier Deschamps’ squad for the upcoming international break.

The decision to omit the France captain, following a recent injury, has sparked criticism from a section of the national team’s supporters.

Mbappe, who plays for Real Madrid, missed a game due to injury but returned as a substitute in their 1-0 Champions League loss to Lille. After Deschamps named his squad for the international fixtures, leaving out Mbappe, a fan group voiced their frustration, claiming it was “not normal” for the national team captain to be left out.

Responding to the criticism, FFF president Diallo clarified the reasoning behind the decision. “There is nothing above the France national team and its structures,” Diallo said in an interview with France Info. “Didier Deschamps had direct discussions with Mbappe and Real Madrid’s medical staff before making the decision. This does not in any way call into question Kylian’s commitment to the national team.”

Diallo went on to highlight the demanding schedule that top players face, with Mbappe playing as many as 65 matches per season across club and national competitions. “We are reaching a point where it’s necessary for clubs, national teams, and governing bodies to come together and strike a balance, especially with the aim of protecting players and preserving national teams.”