The mystery of Zidane and Mbappé's relationship: tensions and friction in camp

Mbappé missed training and his availability for France's Nations League match against Italy on Thursday is in doubt; reports suggest tension between the Real Madrid forward and new manager Zidane.

France's preparation for Thursday's Nations League clash against Italy at San Siro has been disrupted by uncertainty over Kylian Mbappé's fitness and availability. The Real Madrid forward missed training at Clairefontaine on Wednesday, prompting France to call up PSG's Mayulu as cover.

Mbappé was absent from France's opening Nations League fixture in Paris and his status for the Italy match remains unclear. French media reports indicate strained relations between the attacker and newly appointed manager Zinedine Zidane, with tensions evident from the start of their working relationship.