Kylian Mbappé out for Nations League, major setback for Real Madrid and Zinedine Zidane
In the Istanbul stadium, Kylian Mbappé scored France's only goal against Turkey before collapsing, his knee bleeding, in the 59th minute. The young Real Madrid striker left the pitch, then the gathering, allowing the French staff to announce his absence for the next three Nations League matches.
A injury that changes the game
France's captain, Kylian Mbappé, suffered a tendon injury to his knee, according to the official report released after the match. The French staff confirmed he will return to Madrid for treatment, without specifying the length of his club unavailability.
Consequences for the French national team
Without their goal scorer, France will face Belgium on Monday at 20:45, then Italy on October 2, and finally the Belgians three days later. Zinédine Zidane will have to revise his offensive setup, with Bradley Barcola, Désiré Doué and the newcomer Estéban Lepaul as alternatives.
Impact on Real Madrid
Real Madrid thus loses its main striker during a crucial period of the international window. This absence adds to Zinédine Zidane's difficult first stint at the helm of the French team, which had nevertheless started the Nations League campaign with a narrow 0‑1 win in Turkey.
Mbappé is injured after scoring France's only lead in Turkey
The match against Turkey ended with a 0‑1 victory thanks to Mbappé's goal in the 54th minute, before the captain handed his place to Désiré Doué five minutes later. Turkey finished in tenth place after the expulsion of its goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir in the 87th minute.
In the same group, Belgium beat Italy 0‑2 thanks to Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio, increasing the pressure on France, which now finds itself without its leader.
The French staff indicated that Mbappé will not take part in the trip to Belgium, nor the home match against Italy, nor the meeting with the Belgians, confirming three consecutive absences for the captain.
Nations League Zidane steers France past Turkey as Italy stumble
This situation leaves France and Real Madrid facing major tactical challenges, while Zinédine Zidane will have to adjust his attack for the upcoming Nations League fixtures.