After six months of absence, Kylian Mbappé will return to wear the France jersey, sporting the captain's armband to face the quarterfinals of the UEFA Nations League against Croatia. He arrived yesterday in Clairefontaine with the rest of his teammates… but before that, he gave an interview to ‘Le Parisien’ to reflect on his return to the national team.

“I represent my country with its values and the love I have for it”

“It always gives you the same feeling of pride to represent France. Also, it's a new year, starting with a big game, with the qualification for the Final Four (of the Nations League) and one goal: to prepare, of course, for the 2026 World Cup, which is the big challenge for this group,” said Mbappé, who is “happy to be back and with the same energy to help the team.”

During these months, there were doubts about Mbappé’s commitment to France. But he wanted to emphasize that, for him, the national team is the most important: “I represent my country with its values and the love I have for it. There is no higher place than the national team. Maybe the public in general needs to be reminded of this. But for us, the players, it is very clear.”

“Our relationship can’t end up in the trash can”

In addition, Mbappé also highlighted that his issues with Deschamps are resolved: If there had been a breakup, he would never have answered his calls. He was my only coach on the French national team and gave me my first call-up. We’ve had successes together, and our relationship can’t end up in the trash can over two or three disagreements.”

Therefore, among the speculations that place his idol Zidane as the future coach, Mbappé made peace with Deschamps… as was evident upon his arrival at the camp: “A little tired,” said Deschamps to welcome him with a laugh. Now, it remains to be seen that everything returns to normal on the field to forget this small crisis and help France continue to achieve success.