Wesley Fofana Defends Kylian Mbappe Amid Criticism for Missing International Matches
Mbappe was left out of the France squad for the matches against Israel and Belgium during the current international break, as head coach Didier Deschamps opted to give him time to get "100 percent fit.
Wesley Fofana has come to the defense of his French national team captain, Kylian Mbappe, following recent criticism over Mbappe’s absence from the national squad during the UEFA Nations League. Mbappe was left out of the France squad for the matches against Israel and Belgium during the current international break, as head coach Didier Deschamps opted to give him time to get "100 percent fit." However, Mbappe's decision to visit a nightclub in Stockholm during France’s 4-1 victory over Israel sparked backlash from fans and former players alike.
Despite the criticism, Fofana, a defender for France, backed his teammate, stating, "He does what he wants," when asked about the incident. Fofana emphasized that Mbappe is not only a talented player but also a great professional and person.
France's Dominant Win Without Mbappe
France secured a comfortable 4-1 win against Israel in their UEFA Nations League Group A encounter, held at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais. Goals from Eduardo Camavinga, Christopher Nkunku, Matteo Guendouzi, and Bradley Barcola helped France stay in second place in their group, trailing only behind Italy. Israel's sole goal came from Omri Gandelman, but it wasn’t enough to challenge France's dominance.
Even without their star forward Mbappe, the French team performed admirably. However, questions began circulating about the captain’s absence, particularly after reports emerged that Mbappe was seen at a nightclub in Stockholm during the match.
Fofana on Mbappe’s Decision: "Everyone Does What They Want in Their Free Time"
When asked about Mbappe’s trip to Sweden, Fofana downplayed the incident, explaining that everyone is entitled to use their free time as they see fit. "Mbappe going to Sweden? Everyone does what they want in their free time," Fofana told reporters, as cited by GOAL. He further added that the French squad had not discussed Mbappe’s whereabouts and that he wasn’t even aware of the story until it was brought up.
Fofana also expressed his belief that the media might be overreacting to the situation, attributing the intense scrutiny to Mbappe’s status as the best player in France. "He does what he wants; he is a great guy and a great professional," Fofana reiterated. "I think that from time to time [the media] go a little too far. You should ask Kylian Mbappé for more information."
Mbappe's Expected Return to Real Madrid
As France prepares for their next Nations League clash against Belgium, Mbappe is expected to miss out again. The star forward is reportedly set to return to training with Real Madrid ahead of the upcoming weekend’s club fixtures.
While some fans and pundits have voiced their displeasure at Mbappe’s absence from the national squad, others, including Fofana, have shown their support for the French captain, emphasizing his professionalism and right to manage his time as needed.
Mbappe’s focus will now turn back to his club duties, as Real Madrid continues their pursuit of domestic and international success in the ongoing football season. Despite the controversy, Mbappe remains one of the most respected and talented players in world football, and his return to full fitness will be crucial for both Real Madrid and the French national team in the months to come.
