ORLANDO, Fla. – France manager Didier Deschamps addressed concerns surrounding Kylian Mbappé’s fitness and defended his squad selection ahead of upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Colombia, both scheduled to be played in the United States. The matches, serving as crucial preparation for the upcoming World Cup, have been overshadowed by debate over Mbappé’s inclusion despite limited recent playing time with Real Madrid.
Deschamps emphatically dismissed suggestions that Mbappé’s call-up was motivated by marketing considerations, stating, “It’s not true that he was forced to reach for marketing purposes, he wanted to be here for these matches.” The manager acknowledged Mbappé’s recent knee injury, which has restricted his appearances, including a brief stint in the Champions League Round of 16 second leg against Manchester City, but expressed confidence in the forward’s condition. “We’ll see what happens this weekend against Atlético Madrid, how he feels, and based on that, we intend for all selected players to get minutes,” Deschamps added. France will face Brazil on March 26 and Colombia three days later.
The latest update, confirmed by Deschamps during a press conference on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, indicates that Mbappé is now passed fit to start against Brazil. This news will be a significant boost for Les Bleus as they prepare for a challenging encounter against the South American giants. The press conference, held ahead of tomorrow’s friendly, also featured both Deschamps and Mbappé addressing questions from the media.
Mbappé Addresses Injury Concerns and Colombia Test
During the press conference, Mbappé addressed concerns about his physical condition and readiness for the match against Colombia, stating, “muy bueno” (incredibly fine) about the Colombian team but firmly asserting, “no vamos de vacaciones” (we are not on vacation). This statement underscores France’s serious intent to approach these friendlies with a competitive mindset, despite the relaxed atmosphere often associated with exhibition matches. The forward’s comments signal a determination to regain peak form and contribute meaningfully to the national team’s preparations for the World Cup.
Chevalier’s Inclusion: A ‘Human Gesture’
The squad announcement also sparked discussion regarding the inclusion of Lucas Chevalier as a third-choice goalkeeper. Deschamps justified the decision as a “human gesture,” explaining, “It’s a human gesture toward him. I don’t realize how things will proceed for him before May, but we felt it was important to bring him.” This decision highlights Deschamps’ commitment to recognizing and rewarding players, even in a non-traditional role, and fostering a positive team environment.
The French squad features a wealth of talent beyond Mbappé and Chevalier, including Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni, both representing Real Madrid, as well as key players from clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich. This depth of quality provides Deschamps with a range of tactical options and ensures a high level of competition for places within the team.
Deschamps Denies ‘Vacation’ Claims and Emphasizes Sporting Reasons
Recent speculation surrounding Mbappé’s role within the squad prompted Deschamps to clarify that the Real Madrid forward was not included for marketing purposes, but to actively compete and gain valuable playing time. He confirmed ongoing communication with Mbappé throughout his recovery process, emphasizing the player’s strong desire to rejoin the team. Deschamps’ firm stance underscores his commitment to selecting players based on sporting merit and prioritizing the team’s performance.
The manager also addressed the issue of minute allocation, stating that he intends to give playing time to all squad members, particularly those returning from injuries. With six substitutions allowed, Deschamps has the flexibility to manage player workloads and ensure adequate rest and recovery. He acknowledged the importance of balancing competitive objectives with the need to avoid unnecessary risks to players ahead of crucial matches with their respective clubs.
Looking Ahead: Brazil and Colombia Friendlies
The friendlies against Brazil and Colombia represent a significant opportunity for France to fine-tune their preparations for the World Cup. Deschamps is expected to experiment with different tactical formations and player combinations, assessing the team’s strengths and weaknesses in a competitive environment. The matches will also provide valuable insights into the form and fitness of key players, informing his final squad selection for the tournament.
The team’s arrival in the United States signals a commitment to engaging with fans in North America and capitalizing on the growing popularity of soccer in the region. The matches are expected to draw significant crowds and generate considerable media attention, further enhancing the profile of French football on the global stage.
France’s match against Brazil is scheduled for March 26, followed by a clash with Colombia on March 29. Both matches will be played in the United States, providing a valuable opportunity for fans to witness the team’s preparations firsthand. The outcomes of these friendlies will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding France’s World Cup ambitions and set the tone for their campaign.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the French national team will be the announcement of the final World Cup squad in May. Fans can stay updated on the team’s progress and receive official news through the French Football Federation’s website and social media channels.
What are your thoughts on Deschamps’ squad selection? Share your predictions for the Brazil and Colombia matches in the comments below!
