“It’s nonsense and it’s annoying”: Zinédine Zidane responds to rumors of falling out with Kylian Mbappé

His expectations for France-Türkiye

“Normally, we are all available to train. We know what we did in Italy (3-1 defeat), great things, but when we lose, other things went less well. We have to win, even if one point is enough, but we want to win the match. We know that we will have to play a big match. We are all ready, and we know what we have to do. Complete the job and qualify. That’s our goal.”

Mbappé present?

“Kylian, of course that changes everything. We prefer to have it. There is no problem. He will be with us tomorrow. You will see how we will play. (On his positioning) These are coaching things, it’s not against you.”

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The management of Zaire-Emery

“(On managing the versatility of players) There is no difference. Warren, I prefer to have him in midfield, in his usual position. We have two other players on the right and left (in defense). I want to see him in midfield. I’m not trying to muddy the waters.”

The fragile Blues without the ball

“I don’t agree with what you’re telling me. We weren't in any more danger than that. We conceded three goals, but it's not because we weren't good defensively. We do it well. This is also our idea. I don’t entirely share this analysis.”

What he wants to improve

“Honestly, this is the second gathering, we are not in a club every day. It's complicated, we don't have time to train, but what we have put in place is pretty good. We have to improve on everything and we will improve.”

Muddled relationship with Mbappé?

“That seems to be the message that a lot of people want to get across. I don't understand, but it's not a big deal. That's why I'm not going to get into the debate. I have the relationship of a coach with his player and it goes perfectly. I can't stop what's being said. But this is nonsense and it's a shame. Obviously, the comments that have been reported to me are annoying.”

It's always nice to come back to Bordeaux.

Zinedine Zidane

Cherki right torchbearer

“I can see him in this position. He is capable of playing in this position, even if he plays elsewhere at the club. He does it pretty well.”

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The fall of the Girondins

“It's not great, I'm not happy, even sad. This is the opportunity to say it and I hope that with the buyers, we will see the Girondins at the top. It’s always nice to come back to Bordeaux, I have good memories there as a player.”

Comments collected at a press conference