Didier Deschamps explains Kylian Mbappé media absence

In a pre-match press conference at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday afternoon, France captain Kylian Mbappé (24) was not present to answer questions from the media. Vice-captain and Atletico Madrid attacker Antoine Griezmann took his place to answer to the press, alongside manager Didier Deschamps – who explained Mbappé’s absence in front of the media.

“There’s no obligation to always have the captain there,” said Deschamps when pressed on the subject. “In my opinion that is in the interest of the National Team, I’m well aware that you’re very interested in Kylian.”

“I don’t think there would have been many questions about the Ireland game if he’d been there. I put the collective interest first ahead of the individual”. 

Deschamps did also give some indication of the physical and mental state of the Bondy-born attacker, stating that “Kylian is doing very well, he’s back with his club and playing one match after another. He’s fine physically and mentally, and he comes in with his captaincy status.” 

Kylian Mbappé is still yet to appear in front of the media, not since his previous press conference appearance prior to France’s qualifying match against Gibraltar in Portugal back in June. This was in the midst of a fallout with PSG which dominated headlines throughout the summer, only to be resolved in time for the start of the Ligue 1 season.