Kylian Mbappé is set to make his much-anticipated return to the French national team as they prepare for the upcoming quarter-finals of the Nations League against Croatia, scheduled for March 20 and 23. Coach Didier Deschamps confirmed on March 13, 2025, during the announcement of the 24-player squad, highlighting Mbappé's leadership role now as he is expected to resume the captaincy after missing the last two gatherings due to personal reasons.
Mbappé last donned the national jersey on September 9, 2024, when he starred in France's 2-0 victory over Belgium. His presence is highly welcomed as he is not just one of the most talented players globally but also carries the unique burden of leadership as they head back onto the field against Croatia, on whose turf they will play for the first leg.
The France squad will also welcome Aurélien Tchouaméni back from his absence. Further bolstering the team is the 19-year-old attacking sensation, Désiré Doué, who has secured his first call-up following his impressive showing at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). "He shows interesting things when he plays with PSG, and he has made great progress," Deschamps emphasized, underscoring Doué's versatility as he can contribute both offensively and defensively.
On the defensive front, Deschamps has selected seasoned players with Benjamin Pavard making his way back following previous exclusions, ensuring stability as the team gears up for the challenges posed by Croatia. Meanwhile, N’Golo Kanté will not participate due to what Deschamps labeled as a "small muscle problem," which has sparked some concern among fans. "Kanté, on the other hand, has not been recalled due to slight muscle issues," Deschamps stated, highlighting the delicate balance of managing player fitness.
Following the squad announcement, Deschamps made it clear, "I exchanged with him; I have already said yes, he will be captain." This underlines the key role he anticipates Mbappé will play not only on the pitch but also as the center of team spirit and morale as they advance. The squad has been consistently performing well, winning the Nations League back in the 2020-2021 season, showcasing their capability to triumph under pressure.
France will face Croatia at the Stadion Poljud for the first match on March 20, followed by the second leg at Stade de France on March 23. If France succeeds, they will look forward to meeting either the Netherlands or Spain, gearing up for what promises to be demanding matches simultaneously aligning with their goals for the tournament.
The full listing of the selected players includes three goalkeepers: Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Brice Samba (Stade Rennais), and Lucas Chevalier (Lille). Defenders are Jonathan Clauss (Nice), Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Théo Hernandez (AC Milan), Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool), Jules Koundé (FC Barcelona), Benjamin Pavard (Inter Milan), William Saliba (Arsenal), and Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich). Midfield talents consist of Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid), Mattéo Guendouzi (Lazio), Manu Koné (AS Rome), Adrien Rabiot (Olympique de Marseille), Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid), and Warren Zaïre-Emery (PSG).
Up front, the attacking lineup features tools like Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, Randal Kolo Muani, and Michael Olise alongside the returning Mbappé and debutant Doué. Deschamps has carefully balanced experience with youthful energy, creating what many believe could be one of the most formidable generations of French football.
With the current momentum and the depth of talent assembled, fans are hopeful for the French national team’s success as they step onto the field aiming for victory against Croatia. Given the blend of experience, revitalization, and strategic acumen displayed by Deschamps, the upcoming matches are poised to be both thrilling and reminiscent of France's rich footballing history.
Now, as the countdown begins for the matches next week, the spirit at the French training camp is at its peak. The players will gather at their facility at Clairefontaine to finalize preparations, fostering camaraderie as they define their paths forward with aspirations ringing true for yet another triumphant campaign across European football.