Kylian Mbappe returned to the France squad named on Thursday for this month’s UEFA Nations League quarter-final against Croatia, as Paris St-Germain teenager Desire Doue earned a first call-up.

Mbappe, the 26-year-old striker, who has 86 caps, was not included in the squad for their Nations League fixtures in October and November after signing with Real Madrid in July.

“I’ve discussed with him. I can confirm what I told you a few weeks ago, he will be our captain,” Deschamps told a press conference.

The versatile Doue, meanwhile, has been rewarded for his impressive club form.

The 19-year-old has scored or set up a total of 17 goals in 23 appearances since becoming a regular in the PSG side in mid-December.

“He is not always a starter for his club but whenever he plays or comes on he has made a lot of progress,” Deschamps said.

France face Croatia away in Split in the first leg of the quarter-final on March 20 while the second leg will be played at Stade de France on March 23.

Source: Dawn 

BDST: 1132 HRS, MAR 14, 2025
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