PARIS — Didier Deschamps, the head coach of the French national football team, addressed concerns regarding Kylian Mbappé’s recent struggles on Thursday. After France’s goalless draw with Israel in the Nations League, Deschamps was questioned about Mbappé’s exclusion from the squad for the upcoming match against Israel and a subsequent game in Italy.

Deschamps acknowledged the challenges Mbappé is currently facing, stating, “It’s a fact that he is in a difficult situation. Obviously, he is going through a period which is not the happiest of his career.”

Previously, Mbappé missed the national team assembly due to a minor thigh injury, but he is not injured this time around. Deschamps confirmed that Mbappé expressed a desire to join the team but ultimately concluded that it would be more beneficial for the player not to be included at this stage. Deschamps pointed out, “Everybody can go through a difficult period. There is a physical element, and a psychological one.”

The Real Madrid forward’s recent performances have not reached the high standard he has set in the past. Since transferring from Paris Saint-Germain this summer, he has managed to score just one goal in his last seven club appearances and has not added to his tally of 48 goals for France since June.

In a recent interview, Deschamps refrained from delving into the reasoning behind his decision to omit Mbappé but made it clear that it was not related to recent allegations reported in Swedish media about a rape investigation involving the player. Mbappé’s representatives have strongly denied these claims, labeling them as “false and irresponsible.”

Deschamps’ remarks reflect the complexities of managing top-tier athletes who face both physical and mental pressures, particularly in high-stakes environments like international football. The French national coach remains hopeful for Mbappé’s return to form, recognizing that both ups and downs are part of an athlete’s journey.