Kylian Mbappe has made a controversial career choice months into his time at Real Madrid, it has been reported.
The 25-year-old was not named in France's squad for the ongoing international break, despite returning from injury to play for Real Madrid in early October.
Manager Didier Deschamps confirmed that Mbappe has been suffering from a 'problem which is not serious', but refused to take any risks over the forward.
He was named as Real's player of the month for September, and has scored five goals in his first eight games for the club since signing on a free transfer following the expiry of his Paris Saint-Germain contract.
Advert
Now, French outlet Foot Mercato has reported on his current absence from the national team.
They claim that, during the last international break, Mbappe informed France selectors that he would not be available for selection for the upcoming set of fixtures.
The report adds that it would be a 'priority goal' for Mbappe to only play 'important' matches for France amid concerns over injury and the increase in matches at club and international level, though it is unclear whether this has been officially discussed between Mbappe and the France hierarchy.
SPORTbible has contacted Kylian Mbappe's representatives for comment.
In recent months, a number of high-profile players have publicly spoken out about the increase in schedules, with two Champions League group stage matches and a Club World Cup added to this season's calendar.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri said players were close to 'striking' due to health risks associated with the calendar - days before he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury against Arsenal.
He said: "I think we are close to that [striking].
"If it keeps this way, it will be a moment that we have no other option. But let's see."
And prior to his Manchester United departure and subsequent retirement this summer, Raphael Varane was also vocal in his criticism of the current situation - voicing his concern over new rules last season which aimed to keep the ball in play for longer as part of a wider critique over the calendar.
He said last year in a Twitter post aimed at the FA and PGMOL: "From the managers and players, we have shared our concerns for many years now that there are too many games, the schedule is overcrowded, and it's at a dangerous level for players' physical and mental well-being.
"We just want to be in good condition on the pitch to give 100 per cent to our club and fans. Why are our opinions not being heard?
"As a player I feel very privileged to do the job I love every day but I feel these changes are damaging our game.
"We want to be at our maximum level, the best we can be and put on amazing performances for fans to celebrate every week."
Topics: Kylian Mbappe, Football, Real Madrid, France
Ryan Smart