Real Madrid star misses France's UEFA Nations League campaign

And that bombshell was none other than the absence of Kylian Mbappé, one of the biggest names in world soccer and a star for Real Madrid, from France's squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Israel and Belgium. Truthfully, leaving him out after he felt some discomfort does raise several questions about the effect this might have on the French national team and the player himself.

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The importance of Mbappé to France

No doubt, he-Mbappé-is the heartbeat of the offense for the French team. Talent, speed, and killer instinct in front of the net have made him, during the last few years, indispensable for Didier Deschamps. Now 25, the Real Madrid forward already carries a responsibility on his shoulders: being the technical leader of a team that chases titles non-stop. A lost Mbappé is like losing an essential puzzle piece that most of the time seems impossible to put together.

An injury to his left hamstring, which kept him out of two matches for Real Madrid, was a warning signal. Even then, Mbappé, who was back ahead of schedule, had played in the loss against Lille. That early comeback might have been costly, as the muscle discomfort has now ruled him out of France's next games. Deschamps rested the star and kept him at the club, proof that the coach is of the long view: he does not want further strain and would rather have Mbappé recover in full.

Nkunku's opportunity

Without Mbappé, this is Christopher Nkunku's chance to shine. Not having been called up to the French squad since last June 2023, the Chelsea forward is causing an upset with his performances this season in the English club. Scoring six in nine games, Nkunku seems to be at the pinnacle of his game and ready to step into one of the vacant spots in the national team.

Nkunku is an attacking player, capable of pulling many strings, and for that reason alone he gives Deschamps something very dynamic to replace Mbappé. He also introduces fresh energy into a team that is presently evolving toward a new generation, especially now that Antoine Griezmann has retired from international duty. This is now or never if Nkunku is to prove that he is not just some backup option in this new-look France side.

The UEFA Nations League

It's one win and a loss for France so far in the UEFA Nations League, with a team that is still trying to find its rhythm. The 3-1 opening defeat against Italy was a rude awakening, but the 2-0 win over Belgium instilled much-needed calm. With three points, France is second in Group 2, with leaders Italy sitting comfortably with six points.

Now, without Mbappé, there are two crucial away challenges in store for the team-first against Israel on October 10 and then another one against Belgium on October 14. These two games will be very significant for deciding the fate of the team in the competition, and the absence of France's number 10 surely changes the look-ahead of these two games. The onus will now be on the likes of Nkunku, Kolo Muani, and Dembélé to push the attack wheel of the French upfront.