NT coach points to Real Madrid for holding back key players – ‘They were willing to come, but…’ | OneFootball

France coach Didier Deschamps has openly expressed his frustration with Real Madrid for holding back Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni from joining the national team camp on time.

The French squad began training last Friday ahead of their UEFA Nations League semifinal against Spain, but they had to do so without two key players.

Both Mbappe and Tchouameni are expected to arrive at the French camp on Monday. While Deschamps confirmed their arrival, he made it clear that he was not pleased with the situation.

Speaking to the media, he stated: “Kylian and Aurelien arrive on Monday at noon, and the seven other players who played in the Champions League final will come on Monday evening.”

Deschamps blames Madrid

Deschamps did not hide the fact that the delay was due to Real Madrid’s decision. According to him, both players were eager to join the squad earlier.

Aurelien Tchouameni and Kylian Mbappe will join the national team camp on Monday. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

“Honestly, both players were willing to come this Friday,” he revealed. “But they (Madrid) are abiding by the rules, and the FIFA deadline is June 2. I won’t blame the players for doing what the club wants.”

Despite understanding the regulations, Deschamps clearly was not thrilled about starting preparations without two of his best players.

Mbappe, who is the captain of the team, also wanted to return earlier to be with the group. However, Real Madrid insisted that they join only on June 2, the official FIFA date when clubs are required to release players for international duty.

“I’m not going to put the players on the spot with their club. Kylian, as captain, wanted to be back with the group, but that’s the way things are,” he added.

Ultimately, Real Madrid’s decision, despite being within the rules, has not gone down well with the French manager, but there is absolutely nothing that can be done.

Source: Mundo Deportivo