Kylian Mbappé joins France tour as Nike push amid scrutiny of Real Madrid care | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappé has played only 45 minutes for Real Madrid across the past month, yet will front France’s trip to the United States before the World Cup. Cameos of 21 minutes at the Etihad and 24 against Atlético yielded little, but coach Álvaro Arbeloa has allowed him to travel.

RMC’s After Foot claims some in France have even suggested Real Madrid examined the wrong knee during his recovery, reflecting disquiet over the club’s handling. His repeated unavailability for Manchester City, Atlético, Benfica, Albacete, Betis, Getafe and Elche has grated.

A disagreement with the medical staff prompted a trip to Paris for a second opinion, and he was seen out with friends while Madrid lost 0-1 to Getafe at the Bernabéu. The mood in the stands has cooled, as Vinícius has taken centre stage.

Speaking at Clairefontaine, Mbappé said his knee is improving and that he wants to play every match for Madrid. He added he has recovered 100 percent after obtaining a diagnosis in Paris and mapping a plan to regain his best level for club and country.

Nike has pushed for his inclusion on this tour, with product launches timed for the tournament. The Nike Air Max Plus France was due to be released today, in blue with the FFF crest, a gold Swoosh and two stars, and an Air Max Plus variant mirrors his Air Zoom Mercurial Superfly 10 ‘KM’ unveiled on two March. Nike’s deal with the FFF is worth 100 million euros per year until 2034.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo