France captain Kylian Mbappe has expressed his confidence and calm ahead of his nation’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan. Speaking on the eve of the match in Paris, the forward revealed that he feels settled both on and off the pitch since his move to Real Madrid and is ready to help France move closer to securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mbappe had recently received treatment for a minor ankle issue sustained while playing for Real Madrid, but he assured fans that it is nothing serious. The star striker confirmed that coach Didier Deschamps is eager to include him in the lineup and that he expects to be fit enough to feature. “The coach wants me to play. I don’t think there will be a major problem,” Mbappe said, adding that he feels in good physical condition.
Deschamps echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that Mbappe’s availability would depend on his own comfort level. “It’s not prohibitive; it depends more on his sensitivity regarding the ankle,” said the French coach, who remains optimistic about his captain’s readiness.
Mbappe also opened up about his personal life, revealing that he has adapted well to life in Madrid after leaving Paris Saint-Germain last season. He admitted that the change of environment has had a positive impact on his mindset. “A career can have some slightly more complicated years, years where you have a little more hardship,” he reflected. “But I’ve adapted well to Madrid. It’s not an attack on France, but I’m more relaxed there. The lifestyle is different and less hectic than in Paris.”
The 26-year-old added that he feels more at ease and that his performances reflect his improved mood. “I’ve managed to score goals, and I think overall my game is in a good place, even if I can still do better,” he said.
Deschamps, meanwhile, warned his squad against complacency ahead of their clash with Azerbaijan. “They’re not among the best European teams, but they recently drew with Ukraine,” he noted. “Seven of their players feature for Qarabag, who have started well in the Champions League.”
France currently lead Group D with two wins from two matches. They will host Azerbaijan at the Parc des Princes before travelling to Iceland three days later as they continue their quest for World Cup qualification.
