Kylian Mbappé Returns as France Captain for Nations League Clash

PARIS — Kylian Mbappé will return to the French national team after a six-month absence, leading Les Bleus in their Nations League quarter-final against Croatia in Split on Thursday night. This match marks Mbappé’s first international appearance since France‘s 3-1 loss to Italy on September 6.

Reflecting on his time away from the squad, Mbappé, 26, acknowledged challenges during his previous captaincy, admitting, “I am lucid enough to know what I do well and what I don’t do well. I know people were not happy with what I was doing on and off the field, and I wasn’t doing them well.”

Under scrutiny for his performance and leadership, he emphasized the importance of self-reflection. “I have no problem questioning myself,” he stated. “I have never had any problem with criticism when it is deserved and well-argued.”

His recent form at Real Madrid has reignited confidence. This season, he has scored 31 goals in 44 matches across all competitions, making him one of the top scorers in Europe. Only Robert Lewandowski (35), Mohamed Salah (32), and Harry Kane (32) have netted more goals in Europe’s top five leagues this season.

Mbappé’s return comes amid speculation regarding his captaincy after a tough period that saw him left out of two Nations League matches last November. Coach Didier Deschamps noted, “it’s better that way,” as concerns grew over Mbappé’s physical and mental state.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward was also absent due to a minor thigh injury, drawing frustration from fans who questioned his commitment to national duties while he continued playing for his club.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his captaincy and the criticism he faced, Mbappé has reclaimed his role confidently, stating, “the most important thing is to move forward and not to repeat the same mistakes.”

With 48 international goals to his name, he is close to drawing level with former teammate Thierry Henry as one of France’s top five appearance makers, gearing up for his 66th cap against Croatia.

Mistakes aside, he seems determined to build strong connections on the field, particularly with his teammate Ousmane Dembélé, who has also been in exceptional form, scoring 30 goals for PSG this season. “He’s another string to our bow,” Mbappé said. “When you see his current form, it gives us even more options, it makes us unpredictable for the opponent.”

As the team prepares for a challenging match against Croatia, Mbappé is optimistic, insisting, “I am feeling good, I feel happy to play football. I am happy to be here to help the [France] team.”