Zinedine Zidane has indicated that Kylian Mbappé will be allowed to play in his preferred attacking position when France resume their UEFA Nations League campaign. According to a report by Madrid Universal on Saturday, November 7, 2026, the Real Madrid forward could operate on the left wing during the upcoming fixtures, rather than being used solely as a central striker.

France are preparing to face Italy and Türkiye during the international break. Les Bleus currently lead their Nations League group, having won three of their opening four matches, and will be looking to maintain that position in the next round of games.

Zidane’s squad contains four players from Real Madrid: Mbappé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Ibrahima Konaté and Eduardo Camavinga. Their inclusion gives the manager several familiar options as he prepares for the two fixtures, while attention is likely to centre on the role assigned to the French captain.

Their first opportunity to work together was disrupted during the previous international break, when the forward sustained an injury in France’s victory over Türkiye. He is expected to be available this time, allowing the manager to put his plans into practice.

Zidane has explained that Mbappé can play in different positions across the forward line and will be free to occupy the area in which he feels most comfortable. The comments indicate that the 27-year-old may start from the left, a role he knows well and has often used to attack defenders and create chances.

The decision also offers a contrast with Mbappé’s responsibilities at Real Madrid. José Mourinho reportedly wants the France international to remain the club’s principal centre-forward, reflecting Madrid’s limited alternatives in that position. Endrick and Carlos Espí have yet to establish themselves as reliable regular starters, leaving Mbappé an important part of the team’s central attacking plans.

That club situation makes Zidane’s approach relevant, but it does not necessarily signal a change in Madrid’s strategy. France can use Mbappé according to the needs of its system, while Mourinho’s reported preference is shaped by the options available to him at club level. The two managers may therefore assign the same player different roles without any contradiction.

Mbappé’s ability to operate from the left could still provide Madrid with tactical flexibility. It may be useful if the club reassesses its attacking balance or considers changes involving Vinícius Júnior, although no immediate move concerning the Brazilian has been established. The international fixtures could offer another demonstration of Mbappé’s versatility, rather than determine his long-term position at the Bernabéu.

For now, Zidane’s immediate task is to prepare France for Italy and Türkiye and make effective use of the players selected. Giving Mbappé freedom to choose his preferred attacking position suggests the manager intends to build around the forward’s strengths instead of imposing a fixed role. His performances during the break will be watched closely, particularly if he is deployed on the left, but the clearest indication from Zidane so far is that the player’s comfort and adaptability will guide his positioning for France.