Deschamps Confirms Mbappé’s Return as France Captain in March

The French national coach expresses confidence in Mbappé following a personal slump and hints at Zidane as his likely successor after the 2026 World Cup.

• Didier Deschamps has announced that Kylian Mbappé will resume his role as captain of the French national team starting in March 2025.
• Mbappé had been absent from the national team in October and November 2024 due to a challenging personal phase, but Deschamps believes he has regained his form and focus.
• Deschamps praised Mbappé’s strong connection to the French national team and emphasized his readiness to lead again both mentally and physically.
• The coach reiterated his plan to step down after the 2026 World Cup, suggesting Zinédine Zidane as a natural and highly qualified candidate to succeed him.
• Deschamps also hinted at future coaching opportunities, stating he is open to offers, including potentially managing Paris Saint-Germain, but ruled out coaching a foreign national team.

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