France coach Didier Deschamps confirms Kylian Mbappe is receiving treatment for a minor ankle injury ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Iceland, as PSG disputes Barcola’s medical diagnosis.
France coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed that Kylian Mbappe is receiving treatment for a minor ankle issue after joining the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The France captain sustained the knock late in Real Madrid’s 3-1 La Liga victory over Villarreal on Saturday, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Iceland.
Konate and Barcola Also Under Medical Review
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate also underwent medical tests after being substituted during the Reds’ 2-1 defeat to Chelsea on Saturday. Both Mbappe and Konate received treatment during Monday’s training session and are expected to continue rehabilitation on Tuesday, according to the French coaching staff.
Meanwhile, the French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed that Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola has been sent home from the national camp due to a hamstring injury.
PSG Disputes FFF’s Diagnosis
In response, Paris Saint-Germain publicly rejected the FFF’s diagnosis, insisting that Barcola’s medical records did not indicate any chronic injury.
Barcola played 60 minutes in PSG’s 1-1 draw with Lille on Sunday before being substituted, showing no visible signs of discomfort during the match.
PSG’s Growing Injury List
Should Barcola face time on the sidelines, he would join PSG’s lengthy injury list, which already includes Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Marquinhos, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Fabian Ruiz, and Joao Neves.
The latest dispute between PSG and the French national team medical staff follows a similar incident last month, when the club criticised the handling of Dembele and Doue’s injuries sustained during France’s Group D win over Ukraine.
France’s Qualification Campaign Continues
Les Bleus currently top their World Cup qualifying group with two wins from two matches. They are set to host Azerbaijan on Friday at Parc des Princes, before travelling to Iceland three days later.
Deschamps is expected to make a final decision on Mbappe’s participation after further medical evaluation this week.
