Mbappé Celebrates Kanté’s Return, Sidesteps Upamecano Talk
12 November 2025
France's Mbappé on Kanté's Return
Mbappé, captain of the France team, said Kanté's return to the national side is a strong addition, and he declined to comment on a possible move by his fellow Frenchman Dayot Upamecano to Real Madrid.
France are preparing to face Ukraine in the ninth round of European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, scheduled for Thursday.
Mbappé added during the press conference: You must constantly improve as a player and as a person, and I hope to be a stronger version this year.
Kanté's impact and Cherki's rise
Mbappé noted that Kanté is a very important player who gives the team confidence on the pitch, and his return will bring experience to a young squad with high quality.
Regarding Rayan Cherki, Mbappé said: Rayan is a talented youngster who keeps improving, and he has integrated with the group quickly, even with Manchester City, which is not easy.
He added: I hope he continues like this; he has started well with us and now has a chance to return.
Looking ahead and potential moves
On facing Ukraine, Mbappé said that playing in Poland was not easy; Ukraine played deep in the first half, then attacked and created several chances. If football had not been fair that night, they would have scored on us.
About Upamecano possibly joining Real Madrid, the defender of Bayern Munich is described as a strong candidate to be among the world’s best this season; yet the reality remains that many teams would want him.
France's position and lineup plans
Deschamps has largely settled on a starting XI for the Ukraine game, with Kanté and Cherki likely to feature, and Mbappé as a central striker. The team leads Group D with 10 points, three ahead of Ukraine, with the World Cup 2026 in sight.
France's coach has also left the door open on his future; a Saudi club interest has been mentioned in media, but Deschamps remains focused on the national side and the schedules ahead of the 2026 finals.
