Mbappé-Zidane relationship at stake for France vs Turkey match

The relationship between Kylian Mbappé and coach Zinédine Zidane became another focus ahead of France's match against Turkey. Zidane confirmed that after missing the game against Italy on November 12 (which ended in a 1-3 defeat), Mbappé would be available to play in the crucial encounter for qualification to the quarter-finals of the Nations League, taking place on Sunday, November 15, in Bordeaux. The match is significant not only for qualification but also for assessing the dynamics between the captain and his coach, which remains a work in progress.

Since Zidane's appointment, the history between the two men has seen missed opportunities. In the first gathering of Zidane's era at the end of September and beginning of October, Mbappé fell ill and spent most of his time in his room when not training, eventually leaving the squad early due to a knee injury sustained against Turkey. Now reunited, with the striker poised to finally play against Turkey after his absence against Italy, their relationship will be closely monitored.

While the chemistry was reportedly good between captain Mbappé and former coach Didier Deschamps, it seems less so with Zidane. Even though they both reside in Madrid, they allegedly have not invested the time to build a solid trust. Zidane dismissed any speculation about tensions, stating, 'I have the relationship of a coach with his player, and it is going perfectly. I can't stop what is said. But it's nonsense. It's a shame and quite annoying.'

Some observers suggest that Zidane's decision to play the Real Madrid forward centrally—after having previously expressed a desire to see him on the left wing—reflects an attempt to appease him, as this had not pleased Mbappé in the past. Zidane commented, 'Kylian will also be able to play in his preferred position in this gathering, up front, and there will be no problem.' Clarifying this relationship through a solid performance and a victory against Turkey would certainly benefit Mbappé.

Since the international break in September, Mbappé has experienced a turbulent time: he missed out on the Ballon d'Or to Harry Kane and faced backlash in China for comments related to Mao Zedong. Additionally, his relationship with Ousmane Dembélé has soured, and Dembélé's absence from the gathering due to injury might be for the best, allowing Mbappé to focus on one issue at a time.

Reportedly, his friction with PSG striker Dembélé, set against the backdrop of the Ballon d'Or race and a competitive atmosphere, partly distanced Mbappé from the group in the last gathering. However, the Real Madrid player is not seen as the most unifying captain. His attitude, at times, divides opinions. Nonetheless, he sets an example through his performance. Against Turkey in Bordeaux, a draw would suffice for France to qualify for the Nations League quarter-finals. It is highly likely that Mbappé will not settle for a tie; he has a coach to win over.