Real Madrid has informed several national federations that it will not allow its players to participate in the football competition at the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris, according to a source close to the matter, confirming information published by the French newspaper "L'Équipe". This news is particularly disappointing for France, the host country, which was hoping to strengthen its squad in the best possible way in an attempt to win the gold medal, with star player Kylian Mbappe being a top priority. Mbappe is likely to transfer to Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain after announcing his departure at the end of the season.
The captain of the "Les Bleus" has previously stated on multiple occasions that he dreams of competing in the Paris Olympics, taking advantage of the Olympic system that allows each team to include three players over the age limit of 23 years. However, since the football competition in the Olympics is not included in the FIFA calendar, clubs are not obliged to release their players.
French national team coach Didier Deschamps has also stated that Mbappe's participation in the Paris Olympics is "very difficult," given that he will be coming directly from competing with "Les Bleus" in the European Championship, which will be hosted by Germany. Deschamps said on Thursday, "It is very difficult both psychologically and physically to participate in two similar competitions back-to-back during the summer without any break." He noted that some members of his squad participating in the European Championship are candidates to be part of the Olympic team that coach Thierry Henry will select.
