France coach Deschamps provides key injury update on Kylian Mbappé ahead of UEFA World Cup qualifiers

Kylian Mbappé has been in strong form to start the 2025-26 season, proving crucial for both Real Madrid and the French national team. His availability is a major concern heading into the UEFA World Cup qualifiers in October, and France head coach Didier Deschamps provided an update on the star forward’s fitness.

In Real Madrid’s last game on Saturday against Villarreal, Mbappé showcased his quality once again, assisting Vinicius Junior for the opening goal and scoring the third in a 3-1 win. Concerns arose near the end of the match when he appeared to be in discomfort and was substituted in the 83rd minute for Rodrygo.

Real Madrid have not released an official medical report on Mbappé’s condition. However, French outlet L’Equipe reported that the forward suffered a minor ankle sprain in the Villarreal game. The news immediately raised questions about whether he would be available for France’s upcoming qualifiers and whether it would be wise to manage his minutes carefully.

On Monday, Deschamps addressed Mbappé’s condition during a press conference, delivering an optimistic update: “Kylian is here. He had a small issue, but nothing prohibitive — otherwise, he wouldn’t be here today.”

Kylian Mbappe of France seen with Ukraine pennant during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Ukraine and France at Tarczynski Arena on September 5, 2025 in Wroclaw, Poland.

While acknowledging that Mbappé is still dealing with mild discomfort, Deschamps expects him to be available for France’s upcoming matches in the World Cup qualifiers. The coach also stressed that a full medical assessment will be conducted after the players’ arrival, which will determine his participation in Thursday’s game and Monday afternoon’s training session.

Kylian Mbappe leads France call-up for World Cup qualifiers: Why is Ousmane Dembele missing?