France captain Kylian Mbappé has been ruled out of Monday’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Iceland after aggravating an ankle injury, the French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed. The Real Madrid superstar, who has been battling a “minor niggle” on his right ankle, sustained fresh knocks during France’s 3-0 victory over Azerbaijan in Paris — despite netting the opening goal.
The 26-year-old appeared in visible pain before being subbed off, prompting discussions between Mbappé, coach Didier Deschamps, and the medical team. As a result, he’s been released back to Real Madrid to begin recovery and will not be replaced in the squad.
The setback adds to France’s growing injury list, with Ousmane Dembélé, Marcus Thuram, Désiré Doué, and Bradley Barcola all sidelined. Deschamps expressed concern, saying Mbappé’s pain was “quite significant.”
Despite the blow, Les Bleus remain unbeaten in Group D and could seal qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup — hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico — if they defeat Iceland and Ukraine fail to win.
