Zinedine Zidane seeks to ease tension with Kylian Mbappe before France fixtures

Zinedine Zidane is attempting to repair his relationship with Kylian Mbappe after disagreements over the Real Madrid forward’s tactical role created tension within the France camp.

Mbappe, France’s captain and the central figure in Zidane’s attacking plans, was used on the left wing during the most recent international break, while Ousmane Dembele played as the central striker. That decision did not suit Mbappe, who prefers to operate through the middle and use his finishing ability closer to goal.

According to French newspaper L’Equipe, as reported by Foot Mercato, tactical disagreements have been one of the main sources of friction between the pair. The situation has developed alongside tension between Mbappe and Dembele, who have been competing for the Ballon d’Or.

Zidane is understood to have recognised that Mbappe was unhappy with his positioning. After France’s latest squad announcement, the manager discussed his plans for the team’s next two Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey, hinting that Mbappe could return to his preferred role in the front line.

The change would allow France to make greater use of the captain’s attacking qualities while avoiding a repeat of the previous disagreement over his position.

Limited communication during latest camp

The strained relationship has not been limited to tactical matters. L’Equipe reported that communication between Zidane and Mbappe had declined in recent weeks, with the two having very few conversations during the latest camp.

Mbappe’s health also reduced the opportunities for direct contact. The forward was forced to remain in his room at the Clairefontaine training centre because of illness before leaving the camp for Madrid after suffering an injury.

Although both men are based in the Spanish capital, their proximity has not helped bring them closer together. Zidane recently managed to move beyond his disagreements with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, but that improved relationship did not create a similar opportunity to strengthen his connection with Mbappe.

The newspaper also said the current relationship between Zidane and Mbappe lacks the harmony the player previously shared with former France manager Didier Deschamps.

Zidane is aware of the difference and wants to settle any disagreements before they affect the atmosphere in the national team. France are due to face Italy and Turkey in the Nations League on 12 November 2026.

With Mbappe serving as both captain and the foundation of Zidane’s attacking project, establishing clearer communication with the Real Madrid forward has become a priority. The manager is therefore seeking to bring greater stability to the squad and ensure France’s leading attacking player is used in a role in which he can have the greatest impact.