French-Cameroonian forward Kylian Mbappe declared fit for World Cup qualifiers after ankle scare

French forward Kylian Mbappe has been cleared to feature in France’s upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers after sustaining a minor ankle injury during Real Madrid’s 3-1 win over Villarreal at the weekend.

Coach Didier Deschamps confirmed that the issue is not serious, easing fears over his captain’s fitness ahead of matches against Azerbaijan and Iceland.

Born to a Cameroonian father and Algerian mother, Mbappe remains central to France’s qualifying campaign as they aim to maintain their perfect start.

The 26-year-old will undergo precautionary medical assessments upon joining the national squad at Clairefontaine, but Deschamps insists there is no major concern over his condition.

“I spoke with Kylian, he had a small niggle, but it’s not serious, otherwise he wouldn’t be here today,” Deschamps told reporters.

“We will take the time with the medical staff to assess the situation and then see how it develops.”

France’s medical team will also evaluate Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté, who suffered an injury during his club’s 2-1 defeat to Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola has been released from the squad after being diagnosed with a chronic hamstring problem that dates back to PSG’s Champions League tie against Atalanta on September 17.

“After consulting with the French national team doctor, Barcola has been diagnosed with a chronic injury to his right hamstring,” the French Football Federation confirmed in a statement.

PSG are facing a growing list of absentees, with Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, Marquinhos, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Fabián Ruiz, and João Neves all sidelined.

Les Bleus, who top their group with two wins from two matches, will host Azerbaijan at the Parc des Princes on Friday before travelling to Reykjavik to face Iceland next Monday.