Real Madrid forward and French national team captain Kylian Mbappé will miss France's upcoming Euro qualifier against Azerbaijan due to inflammation in his right ankle. The French Football Federation (FFF) announced the news on Friday, just a day after France secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a 4-0 victory over Ukraine. Mbappé scored twice in that match, reaching his 400th career goal, but felt renewed discomfort in his ankle afterward.

According to the FFF, Mbappé is still suffering from inflammation in his right ankle, which requires further examination. He has returned to Madrid to undergo medical tests to determine the extent of the inflammation. The decision to withdraw him from the Azerbaijan trip was made jointly by the coaching staff and medical team to avoid any risks and ensure he returns in full form for future matches. While the FFF insists it is not a major injury, they are taking precautions given Mbappé's demanding club schedule.

This ankle issue is not new for Mbappé, as he also missed France's second October fixture due to the same inflammation. He has been managing flare-ups for several weeks, and although he completed the full match against Ukraine, the symptoms intensified afterward, prompting concern.

France will face Azerbaijan on Sunday in Baku for their final World Cup qualifier in Group D. France has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, sitting top of Group D with 13 points. Azerbaijan is fourth in the group with one point.

In addition to Mbappé, Roma midfielder Manu Koné will also miss the game due to suspension after being booked against Ukraine. Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is out as well, due to a muscle strain in his left hamstring.

Didier Deschamps may use this opportunity to rotate the squad and give fringe players a chance. Hugo Ekitike could potentially replace Mbappé in the starting lineup. France is still expected to win against Azerbaijan, despite missing key players.