Didier Deschamps, the coach of the French national team, announced that Kylian Mbappé will not travel to Baku for the upcoming match against Azerbaijan on Sunday in the final round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, due to recurring right ankle inflammation.

Deschamps said in the pre-match press conference: "Mbappé is still dealing with an ankle inflammation. He has returned to Real Madrid, and their medical staff will decide on the next steps. There is no need to risk him, as we have already secured qualification."

Similarly, Eduardo Camavinga will also not participate to avoid any risks. "I won’t risk any player," the French coach emphasized.

Deschamps confirmed that the remaining 22 players in the squad will play, with several changes expected to give match time to those who have played less.

The French coach also reaffirmed his confidence in Lucas Chevalier, the young Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper, who will start in goal despite criticisms since his transfer to the club.

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