Konaté offers support to Mbappé amid mental health concerns

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Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté has expressed his support for France captain Kylian Mbappé, amid concerns of mental health.

Mbappé’s absence from international duty with France has raised questions, with France manager Didier Deschamps, offering only vague explanations when asked about the player.

He insists it is a “one-time decision” unrelated to non-sporting issues.

Meanwhile, reports from L’Équipe, citing sources close to Mbappé, suggest the Real Madrid forward has been grappling with mental health challenges for several months, undergoing therapy with specialists to address them.

Speaking to Téléfoot, Konaté, who shares a close friendship with Mbappé, offered words of encouragement:

“Beyond being a footballer, he is one of my friends, someone that I have a lot of affection for.

“If Kylian has psychological problems in his life, we’ll always be there to help him. But we know the qualities that Kylian has.

“He is a formidable player and one of the best in the world. Every player in their career has had a little blip, so I’m not worried about him. I can’t wait for him to get back to his best level.”

With Mbappé absent, Konaté is expected to captain Les Bleus as they face Italy in a crucial UEFA Nations League clash at the San Siro on Sunday.