The French captain confirmed his availability for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Published October 9, 2025
France captain Kylian Mbappé says he feels life in Madrid is “more relaxed” than in Paris and is in good shape ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain last season, has confirmed he is available for international appearances.
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“The manager (Didier Deschamps) wants me to play. I don’t think there will be any big problems,” Mbappe said on Thursday.
Deschamps added: “It’s not an outrageous act. It depends on his sensitivity to the ankle.”
Two-time world champions France will play Azerbaijan in Paris on Friday and Iceland on Monday.
Mbappe was undergoing treatment for a “small wound” on his right ankle that he sustained while playing for Real Madrid last weekend.
The 26-year-old said he has fully adapted to life in the Spanish capital since joining the European giants.
“There may be years in your career where it’s a little more complicated or a little more of a struggle,” he said.
“But in life, I think I adapted well to Madrid. This is not an attack on France, but it is true that France is more relaxed. In Madrid, the lifestyle is different. It is less hectic than in Paris. In Madrid, the lifestyle is different. It is less hectic than in Paris.”
“I managed to score a goal, but I think I’m feeling better about my game, even though I think I can still do more,” he said.
Coach Deschamps urged his players not to underestimate Azerbaijan.
“For sure they are not among the best teams in Europe, but they came out of a draw against Ukraine with a win,” Deschamps said.
“Seven of our players play for Qarabag and we won our first two pool games in the Champions League,” added the French coach.
Les Bleus are leading the group so far with two wins in two qualifying matches.
