France: Zidane gives strong hint on Mbappé's role with the Blues

Zidane confirms Mbappé will play centrally for France's Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey, his preferred position at Real Madrid.

Zinédine Zidane has clarified his tactical plans for Kylian Mbappé in France's upcoming Nations League fixtures. After deploying the captain on the left wing in his first match in charge against Turkey in September, where Mbappé suffered an injury, Zidane indicated the experiment would not continue.

At Friday's press conference, Zidane stressed that Mbappé is capable of playing multiple positions but will return to his preferred central role for the November internationals against Italy and Turkey. "Kylian will be able to play in his preferred position on this gathering and these matches," Zidane said. "So that means up front. There will be no problem." The decision is partly forced by the absence of Ousmane Dembélé and Esteban Lepaul through injury, removing alternatives in attack.

Former World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit suggested Mbappé's return could bring other challenges, noting tensions from the previous camp and the ongoing Ballon d'Or situation that may need addressing within the squad.