Kylian Mbappe handed injury boost as Zinedine Zidane targets Turkey return

France manager Zinedine Zidane is hopeful Kylian Mbappe will return to action next Tuesday when Les Bleus face Turkey in their final UEFA Nations League group fixture.

The Real Madrid forward missed France’s 3-1 defeat to Italy in Milan on Thursday after experiencing discomfort in his hamstring, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of the decisive stages of the competition.

However, Zidane has played down fears of a serious injury, suggesting the decision to keep Mbappe out of the encounter was largely precautionary.

The French coach expects his captain to recover in time for the meeting with Turkey, with his availability considered important as France look to secure their position in the group.

“I hope so, that’s why he stayed,” Zidane told French television channel TF1.

“I don’t think it’s anything serious. The idea is to have him play.”

Mbappe’s absence was a significant setback for France, who struggled to contain Italy and suffered their first defeat under Zidane since he took charge of the national team in July.

The 3-1 loss also ended the coach’s unbeaten start to his tenure, although he remains confident his players can respond positively in their final group encounter.

Zidane refuses to panic after first France defeat

Despite the disappointing result in Milan, Zidane has urged his players not to overreact, insisting there were encouraging aspects of their performance against Italy.

France enjoyed spells of possession and created opportunities but struggled defensively, allowing the hosts to capitalise on their weaknesses.

The former Real Madrid manager admitted his side were not sufficiently solid at the back but believes the defeat should serve as an opportunity to address their shortcomings rather than trigger unnecessary concern.

“I told them after the match there’s no need to panic,” Zidane said.

“We created chances and had possession, but we were a little weaker defensively.”

The defeat leaves France second in League A Group 1 with 10 points, level with Italy, while Belgium sit third, just one point behind the two European heavyweights.

With the group standings still finely balanced, France will need a positive result against Turkey to strengthen their position and maintain their ambitions in the competition.

Zidane will also be hoping Mbappe returns without further complications as Les Bleus prepare for a crucial conclusion to their Nations League campaign.