Kylian Mbappe Returns to France Squad for Crucial Nations League Clash Against Croatia

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has been recalled to the France national team after being left out of the squad for the past two international breaks. Manager Didier Deschamps has included the 26-year-old star in the squad for the upcoming Nations League quarter-final against Croatia.

Mbappe was initially omitted in October due to fitness concerns, with Deschamps stating he did not want to take any risks. The decision to leave him out again in November was described as a 'one-off', despite Mbappe being fit enough to play for his club during both periods.

The French captain is expected to retain his leadership role as France prepares for the first leg against Croatia in Split on March 20, followed by the return leg in Paris three days later. This match is crucial for France as they aim to advance in the Nations League.

In addition to Mbappe's return, Desire Doue, the Paris St-Germain winger, has earned his first call-up to the national squad. Other notable inclusions are Lucas Digne from Aston Villa and William Saliba from Arsenal, both of whom bring defensive strength to the team.

France Squad for Croatia Double-Header

Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Brice Samba (Lens), Lucas Chevalier (Lille).

Defenders: Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Theo Hernandez (AC Milan), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich), Jonathan Clauss (Nice), Benjamin Pavard (Inter), Jules Kounde (Barcelona).

Midfielders: Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid), Matteo Guendouzi (Lazio), Adrien Rabiot (Marseille), Warren Zaire-Emery (PSG), Manu Kone (Roma).

Forwards: Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan), Bradley Barcola (PSG), Desire Doue (PSG), Randal Kolo Muani (PSG), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), Ousmane Dembele (PSG).

Mbappe has reiterated his commitment to the national team, emphasizing his focus on helping France achieve success in the Nations League. With a strong squad and Mbappe's leadership, France is well-positioned to take on Croatia in this high-stakes encounter.