Kylian Mbappe sustained a broken nose during France’s Euro 2024 opener but will avoid immediate surgery. The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed that a protective mask will be made for their captain, but it remains unclear if he will play against the Netherlands on Friday.
The 25-year-old forward was forced off the field during France’s 1-0 victory over Austria after a collision with Kevin Danso resulted in his face hitting Danso’s shoulder during an aerial challenge. The injury was confirmed at a hospital in Dusseldorf.
“He has returned to the base camp of the French team,” the FFF said. “He will undergo treatment in the coming days, without undergoing surgery immediately.”
After the collision, France attempted to substitute Mbappe with Olivier Giroud, but play resumed before the change could be made. Mbappe returned to the pitch without authorization, sat down, and received a yellow card before the substitution was finalized.
In a post-match press conference, coach Didier Deschamps said their star player was “not doing well” and indicated the injury was severe. “We need to check it out but it seems quite complicated, which is really very unfortunate for us. He didn’t get off lightly.”
Mbappe, who has scored 47 goals in 80 appearances for France, is crucial to their ambition of securing a third European title. He contributed to France’s only goal against Austria when his cross led to an own goal by Max Wober.
Following the match, Danso expressed his apologies on social media, saying, “I wish him a good recovery and I hope he can quickly get back on the pitch. To French supporters: I am sorry that Kylian Mbappe was injured from our duel.”
Deschamps was questioned about Mbappe’s availability for the next match against the Netherlands. “I’m not going to go into hypothesis but the French team with Kylian will always be stronger with him,” he said. “If the news doesn’t go along these lines then we will have to fight without him.”
Team-mate Adrien Rabiot relayed that Mbappe mentioned he might be ready for the third match against Poland next Tuesday. Despite not scoring any goals in the Euros, Mbappe’s presence is vital for France’s campaign, especially after his significant contributions in previous World Cups.
Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid from Paris St-Germain this summer adds another layer of significance to his recovery and future performances. France and their supporters eagerly await his return to full fitness as they aim for European glory.
[wpupg-grid id=articles]