Mbappe Feels 'Calm' and Prepared for France's World Cup Qualifying Matches
The French national team's captain, Kylian Mbappe, stated on Thursday that he is feeling at ease with his life in Madrid and is in excellent physical condition as France aims to secure a World Cup spot by competing against Azerbaijan in Paris.
Mbappe underwent medical attention for a "minor discomfort" in his right ankle sustained during a match for Real Madrid last weekend.
"The manager, Didier Deschamps, expects me to participate. I believe there won't be any significant issues," Mbappe informed journalists on Thursday.
Deschamps commented: "It's not a barrier; it largely depends on how he feels about his ankle condition."
Mbappe mentioned that he feels "more at ease" in his daily life, having completely adjusted to living in Madrid after moving from Paris Saint Germain to Real Madrid last season.
"A career may include some more challenging periods with additional difficulties," he explained.
"However, I believe I have adapted well to life in Madrid. This is not a criticism of France, but I am indeed more relaxed there. The way of life in Madrid is distinct, less rushed compared to Paris.
"I have been successful in scoring goals. However, I feel my overall performance is positive, even though I believe there is room for further improvement," he noted.
Deschamps advised his team not to overlook the capabilities of Azerbaijan.
"Admittedly, they are not ranked among the top European sides, but they recently secured a draw with Ukraine," Deschamps remarked.
"Seven of their squad members represent Qarabag," which has triumphed in its initial two Champions League group stage matches, the French manager added.
Les Bleus lead their qualifying group with two victories from their first two matches. They will play Azerbaijan on Friday at PSG's Parc des Princes stadium and then travel to Iceland three days later.