Paris Saint-Germain's star player, Kylian Mbappé, has seen a decrease in his playing time in recent weeks, which may have positive implications for the France national team as they prepare for the upcoming European Championship and Olympic Games.
Manager Didier Deschamps noted that Mbappé's reduced game time could potentially keep him fresh and physically fit for the major competitions ahead. Despite informing PSG of his decision to leave as a free agent at the end of the season, Mbappé has played the full 90 minutes in only three matches since mid-February.
Deschamps emphasized the importance of managing players' physical condition, especially in the lead-up to significant tournaments. He highlighted the need for players to arrive at the end of the season in optimal shape, acknowledging that fatigue is a common concern among footballers.
However, Mbappé's potential move to Real Madrid in the upcoming transfer window raises questions about his participation in the Paris Olympics, a dream he may not be able to fulfill if he joins the Spanish club. France's under-23 coach, Thierry Henry, revealed that Real Madrid had declined a request to release players for the Olympic Games.
Deschamps expressed disappointment at Real Madrid's decision, suggesting that their stance on the Olympics may be outdated. He acknowledged that ultimately, business considerations often dictate such choices, particularly when events do not align with official FIFA dates.
As France prepares for a friendly match against Germany on March 23, the management of players like Mbappé becomes crucial in balancing performance and rest ahead of the upcoming tournaments. The strategic handling of Mbappé's game time could prove beneficial for both PSG and the France national team as they aim for success on the international stage.
