Kylian Mbappe 'doesn't want to play for France' as Real Madrid star's relationship with Didier Deschamps hits breaking point

Mbappe’s exclusion from the French national squad for the second consecutive time has ignited speculation over the Real Madrid forward’s future with Les Bleus. According to Romain Molina, his decision has been influenced by the ongoing tensions between him and Deschamps and the French forward has vowed not to return to Clairefontaine as his relationship with the manager is "fractious".

In addressing his decision, Deschamps offered limited details but indicated that he had deliberated over the choice following several conversations with Mbappe. He said: "I had several exchanges with him. I thought about it and made this decision about this gathering. I think it's better like this. I'm not going to argue. What I can tell you, two things: Kylian wanted to come, and it is not the extra-sporting problems that come into play from the moment the presumption of innocence exists. It’s a one-off choice for this gathering with the two matches awaiting us."

Yet, reports from French sources suggest otherwise, stating that Mbappe may abstain from representing France altogether if the managerial situation does not change, signalling deeper issues behind the scenes that may not be easily resolved.

Mbappe’s agent and mother, Fayza Lamari, is also reportedly disillusioned with how her son has been portrayed in the French media, with claims circulating that they feel targeted by a hostile press environment. This tension has seemingly led to an “us against the world” approach adopted by Mbappe and Lamari as they believe there is a coordinated effort within French media circles to damage Mbappe’s reputation.

With the international break on the horizon, Mbappe now has a chance to recuperate and refocus. The week and a half off from national team duty could offer him an opportunity to work closely with Real Madrid’s coaching staff to refine his role within the squad and get back his best form as quickly as possible. However, before this respite, he will first take the field for Real Madrid in their La Liga clash against Osasuna at Santiago Bernabeu where he will look to reinforce his form and perhaps alleviate some of the frustrations he has been grappling with this season.