World Cup 2026: Didier Deschamps declares Kylian Mbappé 100% before Spain clash

France coach dismisses fitness concerns surrounding captain ahead of 2026 World Cup semi-final

France head coach Didier Deschamps has insisted Kylian Mbappé is fully fit for the country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final against Spain, dismissing concerns after the captain ended Monday’s training session early.

Speaking on the eve of the last-four encounter, Deschamps moved quickly to calm speculation over the striker’s condition after images of Mbappé training separately from the main group prompted questions about his availability.

The France coach made it clear that there were no injury concerns and said the forward would be ready for one of the biggest matches of the tournament.

“Kylian is fine. We can’t go beyond 100%, yes, he is at 100%. Are you relying on what happened this afternoon? He has the right, like others, to play 10 minutes instead of 20 minutes in a game,” explained the French coach.

The comments came after Mbappé completed only part of Monday’s training session with his teammates before continuing his preparations away from the main group.

Deschamps dismisses injury concerns

The sight of the France captain leaving part of the session early led to speculation over his physical condition ahead of the semi-final.

However, Deschamps stressed that the decision formed part of normal workload management rather than being linked to any injury.

The coach explained that similar adjustments had also been made for other members of the squad as France continued preparations for the meeting with Spain.

His remarks were intended to remove any doubt over Mbappé’s readiness for the match, with the striker expected to lead France’s attack in the crucial encounter.

By confirming that the captain was “100%” fit, Deschamps sought to end speculation less than 24 hours before kick-off.

France chasing another major final

France will face Spain with a place in the 2026 World Cup final at stake.

The semi-final represents another significant moment for Deschamps’ side as they attempt to book a place in a fourth successive final in a major international tournament.

Mbappé remains one of France’s most influential players, making his fitness a major talking point in the build-up to the match.

His partial involvement in training earlier in the day briefly raised concerns, but the France manager insisted there was no reason for alarm.

Instead, Deschamps described the session as part of routine player management, with training loads adjusted according to individual needs.

The coach’s public backing means France head into the semi-final confident that their captain is available and fully prepared for the challenge posed by Spain.

With the countdown to kick-off continuing, Deschamps has made his position clear: Mbappé is fit, ready and expected to play as France seek another appearance in a major international final.