Mbappe a Doubt for Italy Clash as France Look to Seal Nations League Group

France captain Kylian Mbappe is unlikely to face Italy in Milan on Thursday after missing training with a hamstring problem, dealing a fresh blow to Zinedine Zidane’s plans for the Nations League showdown.

Mbappe had only just returned to the squad after injuring his knee while scoring in Zidane’s first match in charge, missing the next three games, and he is now expected to be held back for Sunday’s meeting with Turkey instead.

Even without their captain, France can win Group A1 by avoiding defeat against Italy at San Siro, sitting top on 10 points — three clear of the Italians, who have recovered well after a dreadful start to the campaign.

Italy fighting back

Roberto Mancini’s side have steadied the ship since losing 2-0 at home to Belgium on the opening day, and a win in Milan would blow the group wide open heading into the final round of fixtures.

A group still to be decided

Belgium, third on six points, host Turkey on Thursday and face Italy on Sunday in a game that could prove decisive in the race for the quarter-finals.

Source: The National