National team coach delighted with Real Madrid superstar – ‘Without a doubt…’ | OneFootball

France national team coach Didier Deschamps has revealed that Kylian  Mbappe went through a difficult psychological period while at Paris Saint-Germain.

The star forward, now back with the French national team after a long period, is in much better shape than he was last year, when Deschamps left him out of two squad selections – first due to injury and then due to a dip in form.

“Is Mbappe fresher than last year? Yes, without a doubt, but it’s also related to his last six months in Paris.

“Physically, he’s very well, but it’s mainly psychological,” Deschamps told L’Equipe (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

For what it is worth, Deschamps words explains how much the mental side of football can affect even world-class players.

Mindset key to physical performance

Deschamps further explained that a player’s mindset can directly impact their physical condition.

“The mindset impacts the physical aspect. No one can measure psychological fatigue. The travel, the time differences, the demands, it all adds up,” he said.

Mbappe has found his scoring form at Real Madrid. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The France coach also praised Mbappe’s current state, expressing his satisfaction at seeing the forward fully recovered both physically and mentally.

Mbappe’s improved psychological condition has allowed him to perform at his best with Real Madrid which has prompted his return to the national team.

For France and Deschamps, this return to form is a relief, as it strengthens France’s squad with a player who can now fully contribute on and off the pitch.

With Mbappe back to his sharpest, the French team hopes to leverage his skills and experience in upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Ukraine and Iceland.

At Real Madrid, Mbappe has found the best version of himself. After battling illness during the early part of the FIFA Club World Cup, he has returned to his scoring best, notching three goals in as many La Liga match.

As a result, he has been nominated for the La Liga player of the month award.