Revealed: Kylian Mbappe Considered International Retirement During Self-Imposed Exile from France Squad

French Star Reportedly Toyed with the Idea of Walking Away from Les Bleus Amid Internal Discontent

In a revelation that has rocked French football circles, it’s been reported that Kylian Mbappe, arguably the face of the national team for the better part of the last five years, seriously considered international retirement during what many now describe as his self-imposed exile from the France squad in late 2024.

At just 26, the idea that Kylian Mbappe could’ve turned his back on Les Bleus so soon might seem unthinkable. But as journalist Romain Molina has uncovered, this wasn’t a moment of fleeting emotion—it was a period of deep reflection, tension, and personal reckoning for the newly-minted Real Madrid superstar.

What Happened?

Kylian Mbappe France 2025

For several months in late 2024, whispers began circulating in the French media. Kylian Mbappe wasn’t called up for back-to-back international windows. That in itself raised eyebrows. Was he injured? Was there a falling out with Didier Deschamps? Was he simply being rested ahead of a grueling club season?

As speculation built, the prevailing assumption was that Deschamps, known for his occasional bold selections and no-nonsense attitude, had decided to drop Kylian Mbappe—perhaps to send a message. But Molina’s report paints a very different picture.

According to the French investigative journalist, it was Kylian Mbappe himself who requested not to be selected, effectively removing himself from contention during a period when the national side needed leadership and focus. Behind closed doors, the situation was apparently far more delicate than fans imagined.

The Bigger Picture: Why Would Kylian Mbappe Even Consider Retirement?

Kylian Mbappe France 2025

It’s a question that cuts to the heart of French football’s current state. Kylian Mbappe, despite being a generational talent and the nation’s undisputed talisman since the 2018 World Cup, has never been without controversy. His leadership style, his assertiveness in the dressing room, and his perceived closeness to certain figures in the federation have occasionally drawn scrutiny.

During his self-imposed hiatus, sources say Kylian Mbappe was deeply disillusioned with both the atmosphere around the national team and his own role within it. The burden of carrying the team, the constant media attention, and underlying tensions with some teammates reportedly weighed heavily on him.

It wasn’t just about football. It was about identity, belonging, and a sense of whether or not he still felt aligned with the values and dynamics of the squad. For a player who’s worn the national shirt with such pride, it was a painful crossroads.

A Turning Point: Talks with Deschamps

The standoff might’ve continued had it not been for a frank and reportedly emotional conversation between Kylian Mbappe and long-time France boss Didier Deschamps. The meeting is said to have taken place privately, away from the cameras and press conferences.

Deschamps, known for his ability to manage big personalities, is believed to have reassured Kylian Mbappe of his importance while also asking for renewed humility and cohesion. Whatever was said behind those closed doors seems to have worked—Mbappe reversed his stance and made himself available for selection once again.

But the question remains: Is everything truly resolved?

Did You Know? Not Everyone in the Squad Is On Board

While Kylian Mbappe’s return may have quelled immediate concerns, reports suggest that all is not well behind the scenes. Some within the camp are reportedly wary of his growing influence and frustrated by what they perceive as a lack of team-first mentality.

According to insiders, a number of players have privately expressed support for Ousmane Dembele, seen as a more collaborative and selfless figure within the attacking group. Some even feel Dembele brings more balance to the front line—on and off the pitch.

There have been whispers of minor rifts in the dressing room, which, if left unresolved, could bubble into something far more disruptive. One source close to the team went as far as warning of a potential “civil war” within the squad if unity is not re-established.

For a team aiming to conquer Europe and the world once again, this kind of friction could prove fatal.

What’s Next for Kylian Mbappe?

France will close out their international duties for this window with a third-place playoff match against Germany in the UEFA Nations League this Sunday. It’s a match that might seem inconsequential on paper, but symbolically, it could say a lot about the current health of the team—and Kylian Mbappe’s reintegration.

After that, the focus will shift to club duties, where Kylian Mbappe is expected to lead the line for Real Madrid in the upcoming Club World Cup. That, too, will be a significant test—not just of his form, but of his focus. Having completed a long-anticipated transfer from PSG to Los Blancos, the eyes of the world will be on him.

Whether the emotional strain of the past months carries over to his club performances remains to be seen. One thing is certain, though: Kylian Mbappe is no longer just a player—he’s a symbol, a cultural figure, and a lightning rod for everything happening around him.

Final Thoughts: An Icon at a Crossroads

The idea of Kylian Mbappe walking away from the French national team might have seemed absurd a year ago. But football is as much about emotion as it is tactics—and even the brightest stars can feel the weight of expectation.

His brief period of exile and flirtation with international retirement is a reminder that behind the headlines and highlight reels, players are still human. They feel the pressure. They question themselves. They burn out.

The hope now is that this chapter serves as a turning point—not just for Kylian Mbappe, but for France as a team. Rebuilding trust within the squad, rediscovering collective purpose, and embracing humility may be just as crucial as winning games in the months ahead.

If they get it right, the sky’s still the limit. But if not, we could be looking back at late 2024 not just as a wobble—but as the moment France’s golden generation began to fracture.