France will be without captain Kylian Mbappe and defender Ibrahima Konate for their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Monday. The absence of the two key players comes as a setback for Didier Deschamps’ side, who are on the verge of securing early qualification for next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Mbappe, who has been nursing a minor right ankle issue since joining Real Madrid, aggravated the problem during France’s 3-0 win over Azerbaijan in Paris on Friday. The forward opened the scoring in that match but was substituted before full-time after sustaining two heavy knocks on the same ankle. Following medical assessment, it was decided that the French captain would return to his club for recovery and will not be replaced in the squad.
Meanwhile, Konate, who has been struggling with a right thigh injury, did not feature against Azerbaijan. Despite undergoing treatment and following a specific recovery protocol, the Liverpool defender has been deemed unfit to travel and play in Reykjavik. His place in the lineup is expected to be filled by Marseille’s Benjamin Pavard, offering Deschamps a reliable defensive alternative.
Mbappe’s withdrawal adds to France’s growing list of attacking absentees. Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Marcus Thuram, and Bradley Barcola are all unavailable for October’s qualifiers, leaving Deschamps with limited options up front. Despite the challenges, France remain in strong form—unbeaten after three matches and leading Group D.
During the Azerbaijan victory, Adrien Rabiot and substitute Florian Thauvin were also on target, showcasing the team’s depth even amid injuries. Thauvin, who replaced Mbappe late in the match, could be handed a starting role against Iceland. Deschamps expressed concern over Mbappe’s condition after the game, explaining that the player’s pain was significant enough to warrant substitution.
A win in Iceland would guarantee France’s qualification if Ukraine fail to beat Azerbaijan in the other Group D fixture. Deschamps will be hoping his side can maintain their momentum and secure the ticket without their talismanic captain. Despite the absence of several stars, Les Bleus possess the quality and depth to finish the job and continue their unbeaten march toward the 2026 World Cup.
