France confirm major injury blow for Real Madrid ahead of Barcelona and Liverpool clashes

In partnership with

Evening Standard

·11 ottobre 2025

France confirm major injury blow for Real Madrid ahead of Barcelona and Liverpool clashes

Major concern for Los Blancos with some huge fixtures on the horizon

Kylian Mbappe has withdrawn from the France squad and has returned to Real Madrid to be assessed.

OneFootball Video

Mbappe was forced off late in the second half of France’s 3-0 win over Azerbaijan in World Cup qualification on Friday after receiving a fresh blow to his ankle.

The Real Madrid superstar was already an injury doubt heading into the international break having been substituted in the 83rd minute in the La Liga win over Villarreal.

Speaking after France’s win, Didier Deschamps confirmed the latest on Mbappe: “He received another blow to the same ankle where he was hurt [before].

“The pain decreases when he rests. In a match, contacts are inevitably going to happen. We will assess it. He has discomfort that is not ideal for him.”

On Saturday it was announced that Mbappe will not be available for selection against Iceland on Monday as he has been released from international duty, thus returning to Real Madrid.

A statement reads: “The French captain, who suffered a right ankle injury on Friday evening during the match against Azerbaijan, will not be making the trip to Reykjavik.

“Kylian Mbappe suffered a blow to his right ankle and was forced to leave the match against Azerbaijan (3-0) on Friday evening in Paris at the Parc des Princes.

“Upon the French delegation's return to Clairefontaine (Yvelines), the French team captain spoke with Didier Deschamps. He will not be able to play Monday, October 13 in Reykjavik against Iceland.

“The national coach has confirmed his withdrawal. Kylian Mbappe has been released to his club and will not be replaced.”

Concern: Kylian Mbappe

AFP via Getty Images

Real Madrid will be hopeful of a swift recovery for Mbappe as the Frenchman has been in superb form at the start of the season, netting 14 goals in 10 appearances across all competitions.

Los Blancos face Getafe in their first game after the international break, before taking on Juventus in the Champions League which is followed by the first El Clasico of the season at home to Barcelona.

Xabi Alonso’s side also have games against Valencia and Liverpool at the start of November, but whether Mbappe will be available for selection remains to be seen.