Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe is expected to join the French national team for the upcoming international break despite picking up an ankle injury in Los Blancos’ 3-1 victory over Villarreal on Saturday.

The 25-year-old scored in the match, taking his tally to nine goals and two assists in eight appearances, before being substituted in the 83rd minute after receiving on-field treatment.

Real Madrid monitoring situation closely

Head coach Xabi Alonso confirmed post-match that Mbappe had sustained a knock and that the club would continue to assess his recovery in coordination with France’s medical team.

Although initially uncertain about his travel to Clairefontaine, reports from Mundo Deportivo confirm that Mbappe will indeed join Les Bleus, where he will undergo further medical evaluation.

Real Madrid are hopeful the forward will be released from international duty to aid his recovery, given a demanding fixture list ahead.

The Spanish giants face Getafe after the break, followed by crucial matches against Juventus and Barcelona.

France under scrutiny over player fitness

The French Football Federation is under pressure regarding its management of player fitness, particularly after recent criticism from Paris Saint-Germain.

PSG had publicly condemned France’s handling of Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue, both of whom returned injured from national duty last month.

Real Madrid will be watching closely, as Alonso is keen to have Mbappe fully fit for the key fixtures ahead in their domestic and European campaigns.