While France captain Kylian Mbappe is unlikely to miss the semi-final against Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026, he did suffer a minor injury to his ankle before the match.
Mbappe did not complete France’s final training session on Monday after picking up the knock during Les Bleus’ 2-0 quarter-final victory over Morocco. That match went until late in which the star forward was only a part-time starter as an insurance.
France head coach Didier Deschamps assured supporters the striker is fit to contend for a place in the squad but said there was concern about his fitness.
“Kylian is fine,” said Deschamps at reporters’ questions during the pre-match press conference. The French captain has done a “lightened schedule” on his contribution to training, the French press said, when asked about his involvement.
“Yes, he trained. He can do 10 minutes in one drill, rather than 15,” said Deschamps, which suggested the coach’s staff was just thinking about his fitness for the knockout clash.
Throughout the World Cup, Mbappe has been one of the biggest stars for France, getting the team to a third consecutive Semi-final. With France to face a formidable Spain side for the final it will all depend on his speed, creativity and goal scientific method.
The light injury should not have a major impact on Mbappe’s availability, and France have high trust in the French’s captain to spearhead the attack in their match with Spain in one of the tournament’s biggest matches.