By LEWIS BROWNING, SPORTS REPORTER
Published: 10:54 EST, 14 November 2025 | Updated: 10:54 EST, 14 November 2025
Kylian Mbappe has left international duty with France early due to an ankle injury in what could be a major blow to Real Madrid.
The French captain scored twice against Ukraine on Thursday night as his side won their latest World Cup qualifier 4-0, but has now returned to the Spanish capital for further tests on the issue.
It is believed that the 26-year-old is dealing with persistent ankle inflammation, and will miss his side's second match of the current international window against Azerbaijan.
Mbappe is said to have felt new pain in his right ankle on Friday morning, having recovered from the issue in time to play Thursday's game.
It has been a recurring issue for the forward, who missed his side's draw with Iceland in October with the same issue.
El Desmarque, though, report that there are no signs of a serious issue, and that Madrid expect him to be available for their first game after the break, which is away to Elche in LaLiga on November 23.
Kylian Mbappe has left international duty with France early due to a persistent ankle injury
He will undergo further tests at Real Madrid ahead of a busy club schedule in the build-up to Christmas
The French Football Federation said in a statement: 'Mbappe was not fit to continue and required additional medical evaluation in Madrid to determine the extent of the inflammation and prevent escalation ahead of a demanding club schedule.'
Mbappe was joined on the plane back to Madrid by international and club team-mate Eduardo Camavinga, who has picked up a hamstring strain. Manu Kona also left the camp due to being suspended.
After the international break, the club schedule for top European teams picks up pace with Champions League and domestic action coming thick and fast.
Madrid will play five times in two weeks, starting with the game at Elche, before taking on Manchester City in the Champions League on December 10. Xabi Alonso's side will then play two more games before Christmas, before a winter break.