Aasai

Kylian Mbappe expressed his excitement about rejoining the French national team as they prepare to face Croatia in the Nations League quarter-finals. The 26-year-old, who last played for France six months ago, missed matches in October due to injury and was rested by coach Didier Deschamps in November during his adjustment to life at Real Madrid.

"I feel good, I feel happy to be playing football, I feel happy to be here," said Mbappe during a press conference in Split. He emphasized how close he remains with his teammates, saying they talk frequently and even vacation together. "It’s a pleasure to be here. The situation may have seemed unclear to outsiders, but it was always clear internally," he added.

Mbappe’s switch to Real Madrid last summer came with challenges as he struggled to find top form at the Spanish club. His season was also clouded by a legal controversy when Swedish press linked him to a rape investigation. However, the case was closed in December with no charges filed.

Reflecting on the turbulent period, Mbappe remained positive. "A career is not linear. You have to refocus on what makes you happy and get back to work. If I had to change anything? I’d have played better," he admitted. France will face Croatia in Split on Thursday, with the return leg set for three days later at the Stade de France.