Didier Deschamps drops Kylian Mbappe in France's squad, says 'it's better' without Real Madrid star

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France captain Kylian Mbappe has been left out of Les Bleus’ squad for the second consecutive time, and boss Didier Deschamps has explained why.

Mbappe’s dream move to Real Madrid has been less of a dream and more of a recurring nightmare so far as the Frenchman has struggled to settle into a rhythm for Carlo Ancelotti’s side and it could be argued it has in turn hurt the squad as a whole. The same has also seemed to affect his involvement with the national team as the France captain was left back in Madrid last month for Deschamps’ side’s clash against Israel and Belgium, Goal.com reports.

Surprisingly, Mbappe has been snubbed by Deschamps yet again for a second straight time as the French coach has decided to leave the 25-year-old out of his squad for Les Bleus’ final two Nations League clashes against Italy and Israel. Deschamps has explained why Mbappe has been left out yet again but put to bed rumours of the France captain asking to stay with Real Madrid.

Speaking to the media, Deschamps said: “I had several exchanges with him. I thought about it and made this decision about this gathering. I think it’s better like this. I’m not going to argue. What I can tell you, two things: Kylian wanted to come, and it is not the extra-sporting problems that come into play from the moment the presumption of innocence exists.

“It’s a one-off choice for this gathering with the two matches awaiting us.

“It’s my decision, it’s better that way. I can understand that this is not enough for you, but I am not going to get into an argument that leads to interpretations. I don’t want to tell you more, I take responsibility for this decision.

“I only have hard decisions. I have had to make important, tough decisions several times, whatever you want. Behind every player, there is a human being too. When I make lists for a competition, I don’t just make people happy.

“It is my responsibility to make the decisions. I’m not going to put a slider. I repeat, it is my responsibility, I fully assume it. I live with this and each time I have to make more or less harsh decisions. It all depends on the sensitivity of each person.”

The snub means that Mbappe will be able to recuperate fully during the week and a half of the international break and potentially even work with Real Madrid’s coaching staff to improve his understanding of the system and his role in it.