The latest star signing of Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappé, announced on Sunday that he will not be representing France in the football tournament at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, despite the national demand for the goal scorer's presence.
In a press conference ahead of the French team's debut in the Euro Cup, the ace confirmed that the Madrid club will not authorize any of its players to compete in the event scheduled from July 26 to August 11.
"My club has a very clear position. I don't think I will participate in the Olympic Games, it's a reality. That's how things are," he stated in comments published by Prensa Latina.
However, the stance of the 15-time Champions League winners is understandable to Mbappé: "I am joining a new club, and it wouldn't be the best way to start this new adventure," reasoned the 2018 World Cup champion.
Moreover, the reality is that the Olympic Games are not part of the FIFA calendar, and clubs are not obliged to release their players. Consequently, French coach Thierry Henry has lost hope of fielding the striker.
Henry will lead the under-23 team, as dictated by Olympic rules, but he can invite up to three overage players. However, he won't be able to call upon Eduardo Camavinga (21) and Aurélien Tchouaméni (24), other stars from the Madrid squad.
With the label of favorites and after losing to Argentina in a penalty shootout in the Qatar 2022 final, France will face Austria in the continuation of Group D of the Euro Cup, which saw the Netherlands triumph over Poland (2-1) this Sunday.
Kylian Mbappé and Paris 2024: Key Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Kylian Mbappé's decision and its impact on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Why won't Kylian Mbappé participate in Paris 2024?
Real Madrid, his new club, has a clear stance against allowing its players to compete in the Olympic Games, which are not part of the FIFA calendar.
What is Thierry Henry's role in the Paris 2024 football tournament?
Thierry Henry will coach the French under-23 team, following Olympic regulations, and can invite up to three overage players.
Which other Real Madrid players are affected by this decision?
Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni, both stars of Real Madrid, will also not participate in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.