Kylian Mbappé left the French national team immediately after his brace against Ukraine (4-0). Officially, inflammation in his right ankle requires the French captain to return to Madrid for tests. Unofficially… the Spanish press claims that no medical appointment is scheduled. And in France, suspicions are rising again.
The timing is questionable: a physical issue that arises just before a long, arduous, and meaningless trip to Azerbaijan. This is a story that has been seen before with several international stars, including Mbappé, and it reignites the debate about the so-called “diplomatic injuries” sometimes fabricated by clubs to keep their stars away from international duty.
Rothen criticizes: “He invents an injury”
Jérôme Rothen did not hold back on RMC. For him, it is clear: Mbappé is receiving special treatment. “At 4-0, we were wondering who would invent an injury to avoid going to Baku,” said the former international. “He is the captain, very well. But his teammates are also tired. They don’t want to play a meaningless match, but they are going. Mbappé, no. This double standard can create tensions in the locker room. Some are fed up.”
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Barcola, 50%… but on the plane
What adds to the discomfort: other players, exhausted as well, did not receive the same “preferential treatment.” Bradley Barcola, in particular, is reported to be at only 50% of his capabilities by his entourage. Yet, he is traveling to Baku. This difference in treatment has been noted by many PSG supporters, who criticize a variable hierarchy depending on the player’s stature.
Doubtful for PSG supporters
The Federation validates the medical version. Observers, however, are divided between caution… and total skepticism. What is certain is that Mbappé will not play in Azerbaijan, and this early departure leaves behind a small controversy that Deschamps will have to manage in the locker room. The question remains open: medical caution… or superstar privilege?
