Zidane breaks his silence and erupts in anger.. France coach settles the truth about his dispute with Mbappe before the Turkey clash

15.11.26 14:45 UEFA Nations League A

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France coach Zinedine Zidane has broken his silence over reports of a deteriorating relationship with Kylian Mbappe, firmly denying any conflict with the Real Madrid superstar ahead of Sunday's UEFA Nations League encounter against Turkey.

Speaking at Saturday's pre match press conference in Bordeaux, the former Real Madrid manager expressed frustration at suggestions that his relationship with the France captain had become strained.

"I have the relationship of a coach with his player and it is going perfectly" Zidane insisted, according to Le Figaro.

He dismissed the speculation as nonsense, acknowledging that the reports had irritated him.

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What sparked the Zidane-Mbappe controversy?

The speculation emerged earlier this week following reports in the French media suggesting that Mbappe was unhappy with certain decisions made by his new national team coach.

As Foot Africa previously reported, L'Équipe claimed that the relationship between the two had become less harmonious than Mbappe's previous working relationship with Didier Deschamps.

One reported source of disagreement concerned Zidane's decision to deploy Mbappe on the left wing during September's encounter against Turkey, rather than in his preferred central attacking position.

The reports also suggested limited communication between the pair during their early international camps together.

However, Zidane's latest comments directly challenge the suggestion that their working relationship has deteriorated.

Zidane confirms Mbappe's return against Turkey

Beyond addressing the controversy, Zidane confirmed that Mbappe will be available for Sunday's Nations League match in Bordeaux.

The 27 year old missed Thursday's 3-1 defeat against Italy because of hamstring discomfort but has since returned to training.

Zidane emphasised the importance of having his captain available, acknowledging that Mbappé's presence significantly strengthens France's attacking options.

However, the coach declined to reveal whether he would use the forward centrally or on the left against Turkey.

France need at least a draw to secure a place in the Nations League quarter finals, while victory could improve their position in the group.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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France

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UEFA Nations League A