France coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed Kylian Mbappe could play for France at the 2024 Olympics this summer.
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Mbappe declared desire to play at OlympicsFrance coach has given his backingLes Bleus will be coached by Thierry HenryWHAT HAPPENED?
It was claimed this week by Tony Estanguet, the president of France's Olympic Games organising committee, that Mbappe has declared his desire to represent his country in Paris this summer. France boss Deschamps has said he has no problem with the Paris Saint-Germain star competing at the tournament under Under 21 boss Thierry Henry.
AdvertisementGettyWHAT DESCHAMPS SAID
Asked if Mbappe would be allowed to compete, Deschamps told : "If he wants to and he has the possibility… Obviously, the objective for all of us is to ensure that Thierry Henry can have the most competitive French team possible for the tournament."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Teams in the men's competition are restricted to players ages 23 and under, though they can name a maximum of three overaged players in their squad, meaning 25-year-old Mbappe could be included. The prospect of Mbappe playing at the Games in his homeland could come amid the ongoing transfer saga surrounding the striker, who continues to be linked with a move to Real Madrid after his contract at PSG expires at the end of the season.
(C)GettyImagesWHAT NEXT FOR MBAPPE?
The France hero is free to start negotiations with other clubs over a free transfer in the summer once his contract runs out. Mbappe says he has not yet made a decision regarding his next step, despite recent reports saying he has agreed to join Madrid, while Liverpool continue to be linked to him and PSG hope to convince him to stay in the French capital.