MBAPPE MISSES FRANCE TRAINING AHEAD OF ITALY CLASH

France captain Kylian Mbappe has missed the team's final training session ahead of Thursday's UEFA Nations League encounter against Italy, raising concerns over his availability for the important fixture.

The Real Madrid forward remained under medical care on Wednesday, November 11, while his teammates trained at Clairefontaine before travelling to Milan for the match.

The French coaching staff confirmed that the 27-year-old was receiving treatment but did not disclose further details about his physical condition. His absence comes after he previously missed France's last three matches following a knee injury sustained during the September international break.

Mbappe had scored the winning goal in France's 1-0 Nations League victory over Turkey before experiencing discomfort in his left knee and leaving the pitch. He subsequently returned to Real Madrid for recovery.

France head coach Zinedine Zidane is already dealing with several injury-related setbacks ahead of the Italy encounter. Marcus Thuram, Pierre Kalulu and Aurelien Tchouameni are among the players who have withdrawn from the squad.

Thuram's absence has led to the inclusion of Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi, who received his first senior national team call-up.

France currently lead Group A1 of the Nations League after recording three victories and one draw in their opening four matches. The team will face Italy on Thursday before concluding the group-stage fixtures against Turkey on Sunday.

Despite the concerns surrounding Mbappe's fitness, his participation against Italy has not officially been ruled out. The final decision is expected to depend on his physical condition following further assessment by the medical team.

A confirmed absence would represent another setback for Zidane as France seek to maintain their strong position in the competition.