Kylian Mbappé has left the France national team and returned to Real Madrid after sustaining a knee injury during Les Bleus’ 1-0 UEFA Nations League victory over Türkiye. The captain, who scored his 67th international goal during the match—adding to a tally that includes a World Cup Golden Boot-winning 10 goals—was visibly distressed after striking the ball in the 54th minute.
He was replaced by Paris Saint-Germain forward Désiré Doué.
France manager Zinedine Zidane struck a pessimistic tone regarding the forward’s condition.
“Things aren’t going well,” Zidane told TF1. “I think he’ll return to Real Madrid. We’re not going to take any risks. He developed hyperextension in his knee during the shot. It’s not exactly encouraging for him to be able to continue. He is not feeling OK.”
The French Football Federation confirmed the knee injury, stating it would force the Real Madrid star to miss the remainder of the international break.
With an MRI yet to be conducted, the full extent of the damage remains unknown. However, given Mbappé missed nine matches during the 2025-26 campaign for Madrid due to various muscular and knee complaints, Les Bleus are understandably cautious with their all-time leading scorer.
This extended international window has already claimed several high-profile casualties. Germany’s Kai Havertz is also returning to Arsenal, while Brian Brobbey picked up an issue for the Netherlands.
France still face three Nations League fixtures—two against Belgium and one versus Italy—to decide Group 1 placement. Zidane has attacking options in Doué, Bradley Barcola, and Ousmane Dembélé, but the matches promise to be stern tests early in his tenure after succeeding longtime boss Didier Deschamps following the World Cup.
For José Mourinho and Real Madrid, the next LaLiga fixture isn’t until October 10, potentially allowing Mbappé time to recover if the issue is minor. However, with a congested October featuring two Champions League league-phase games and an El Clásico against Barcelona, any significant absence would be a major blow.
For now, the withdrawal is considered precautionary, though that status could change rapidly.
