The French national team will play its final two group-stage matches in the UEFA Nations League. With Kylian Mbappe not called up, the question of who will captain the team in his absence has arisen.

According to head coach Didier Deschamps, midfielder N’Golo Kante will take on the captain’s role in Mbappe’s absence. Deschamps highlighted Kante’s experience and natural leadership on the field.

Read: Real Madrid interested in Serie A defender

N’Golo Kante set to captain France with Kylian Mbappe missing

N’Golo Kanté, who has been called up to the France squad for the current international break, is expected to captain the team when they play Israel on Thursday.

“He has experience. He’s not one to speak much, but leadership comes in many forms. Through what he does on the pitch, he has always been a leader and driving force” – said Deschamps.

“Within the team, he has been an important leader for years. He’ll have more responsibility, but knowing him well, I don’t think it will change his behavior” – Deschamps stated.

Les Bleus captain Kylian Mbappé has been infamously left out of the squad for the forthcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Israel.

Reports have surfaced of a conflict between Mbappe and Deschamps, with tensions reportedly straining their relationship. This growing misunderstanding has led to suggestions that the forward no longer wishes to play for the national team.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR