Deschamps says Mbappe injury not worth risking
Didier Deschamps has said it was not worth taking a risk with Kylian Mbappe's injury, which is why he will not feature against Azerbaijan on Monday (AEDT).
France secured its spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup last week with a 4-0 win over Ukraine, with Mbappe scoring two goals and registering one assist in the victory.
The France captain has now scored 55 international goals, with his brace in that match bringing him up to 400 career goals for club and country.
However, he is now back with Real Madrid as he continues to struggle with an ankle problem.
The only game that France has failed to win in qualifying so far was a 2-2 draw with Iceland, a match that Mbappe missed.
But Deschamps did not want to take any chances with the 26-year-old's injury.
"Kylian still has inflammation in his ankle," Deschamps said. "I've released him back to Real Madrid; their staff will decide what to do.
"There was no risk to take, as was the case with [Eduardo] Camavinga before him. No risks to take with anyone.
"He's back with his club. The 22 players who are here will be involved in the match."
Les Bleus are six points clear at the top of Group D heading into their final game against Azerbaijan, but Deschamps is determined to finish qualifying on a high.
The hosts cannot qualify for next year's tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, having only claimed one point from their five games so far.
France is the overwhelming favourite, and Deschamps is expected to ring in the changes with qualification already secured.
One player who could benefit is Liverpool's Hugo Ekitike, who came off the bench to score against Ukraine, with Deschamps hailing his impact in that match.
"He made a very, very good entrance [against Ukraine]. Just under 30 minutes. That's good. All the better. He deserves credit," Deschamps said.
"He's one of the players who hasn't had much experience with us, but it's a positive thing, like for other players. He made a thunderous entrance. He even scored. He's happy, he's doing very well, he wants to play.
"They all have an interest in making the most of their playing time, and that was the case for him on Thursday."
