RismadarVoice Reporters
November 15, 2026
France captain Kylian Mbappé has been declared available for Sunday’s UEFA Nations League encounter against Turkey after recovering from a hamstring problem, national team coach Zinedine Zidane has confirmed.
The Real Madrid forward missed France’s 3-1 defeat to Italy on Thursday because of muscular discomfort but is expected to return as Les Bleus seek qualification for the competition’s quarter-finals.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday, Zidane confirmed that the 27-year-old striker would be available for the decisive Group A1 fixture in Bordeaux.
Mbappé’s return provides a significant boost for France, who are seeking to recover from their defeat in Milan and secure progression to the knockout stage.
The forward has scored 17 goals in all competitions for Real Madrid this season and remains a central figure in France’s attacking plans.
He returned to the national team for the November international fixtures after missing three previous matches through injury.
Zidane welcomed his captain’s recovery, stressing the importance of having one of the team’s most influential players available for selection.
The former Real Madrid manager also dismissed reports suggesting a strained relationship between himself and Mbappé.
He described the speculation as unfounded and maintained that their working relationship remained positive.
France’s defeat to Italy was Zidane’s first since taking charge of the national team in July, increasing the importance of Sunday’s final group fixture.
Following the setback, the coach acknowledged that his team had struggled defensively despite creating opportunities and enjoying periods of possession.
He urged his players to remain composed and focus on correcting their mistakes ahead of the meeting with Turkey.
France currently occupy second place in Group A1 with 10 points, level with leaders Italy and one point ahead of third-placed Belgium.
A draw against Turkey would be sufficient to secure France’s place in the Nations League quarter-finals.
Mbappé previously scored the winning goal when France defeated Turkey in September, although he subsequently left the match because of an injury concern.
His availability for Sunday’s encounter offers Zidane additional attacking options as France attempts to conclude their group-stage campaign successfully.
The match is scheduled to take place at Stade Atlantique in Bordeaux, with qualification for the next stage at stake.
