Tensions exist within the France national team between coach Zinedine Zidane and captain Kylian Mbappé, with the manager pledging to "reassemble the pieces" ahead of the trip to Milan. Zidane confirmed that Mbappé, who missed the last international break with a knee injury, will play as a central striker in the upcoming fixtures.
The issue dates back to the 1-0 win over Turkey on September 25th, where Mbappé scored the only goal. On that day, the attacker was deployed on the left wing in a 4-3-3, a position that is not his favourite. He later injured his left knee and spent the remainder of the camp in his room at Clairefontaine, as did Ousmane Dembélé, who was absent through illness.
Zidane has communicated little with his offensive leader recently, a situation that contrasts with his more harmonious relationship with his predecessor, Didier Deschamps. "For this gathering, he will be able to play in his preferred position, as a striker," the coach stated, seeking to calm the situation. This comes as Les Bleus, unbeaten in their last three matches (two wins, one draw), prepare to face Italy this Wednesday, November 12th.
The sporting context remains positive for the side. Kylian Mbappé is the team's top scorer this season with 10 goals in 8 appearances. The last victory, a 4-1 win over Belgium on October 5th, saw Michael Olise shine with a brace. The Crystal Palace player, who occupied the right flank against Turkey, has become a key part of the setup. The squad will, however, be without Esteban Lepaul, who is absent from the list for the games against Italy and Turkey on November 15th in Bordeaux.
Zidane hopes that returning Mbappé to his favoured role will restore optimal cohesion. The match at San Siro is a significant step in this process, before a return to the Matmut Atlantique to face the Turks.
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