Zidane-Mbappe relationship under scrutiny amid reported tension

France coach Zinedine Zidane and captain Kylian Mbappe have reportedly yet to build a close relationship, with tactical differences over the forward’s role in the team emerging as a source of tension.

According to French sports daily L’Equipe, the disagreement began during Zidane’s first international camp in September, when he deployed Ousmane Dembele as a centre-forward and moved Mbappe to the left wing. The decision reportedly left Mbappe feeling that his role in the attack had been reduced, while Dembele was given greater prominence.

The report said the relationship between the two has not developed as smoothly as the bond Mbappe shared with former France coach Didier Deschamps. Their communication was also reportedly limited after Mbappe suffered a left-knee injury against Turkey on September 25 and returned to Real Madrid.

Zidane has since indicated that Mbappe could return to his preferred centre-forward position. The coach said the forward was capable of playing in several positions, including as a striker. Dembele’s absence from the current squad due to injury could also give Mbappe an opportunity to play through the middle.