Kylian Mbappe’s participation in France’s upcoming match against the Netherlands remains uncertain after he sustained a broken nose during their Euro 2024 opener. The 25-year-old striker had to leave the field during Monday’s 1-0 win over Austria following a collision with Kevin Danso’s shoulder during an aerial challenge.
Mbappe was taken to a hospital in Dusseldorf, where medical staff confirmed the fracture, before he returned to the national team’s camp. The French Football Federation (FFF) has stated that an update on their captain’s condition will be provided on Wednesday.
Despite his injury, Mbappe contributed to France’s victory against Austria, as his cross led to Max Wober scoring an own goal. The FFF confirmed that Mbappe does not require surgery for his broken nose and that a protective mask will be made for him.
France’s head coach Didier Deschamps mentioned in a post-match news conference that Mbappe was “not doing well.” Mbappe, who has scored 47 goals in 80 appearances for France, has yet to score in a European Championship.
Looking ahead, Mbappe is set to join Real Madrid after the tournament, following the expiration of his contract with Paris St-Germain.
Mask Will ‘Not Be an Excuse’
Mbappe is expected to wear a protective mask once he is fit to return to the team. BBC pundit and former Spain international Cesc Fabregas, who has experience playing in a mask, stated that it would not negatively impact Mbappe’s performance.
“It’s a bit uncomfortable [but] I think once you start training with it a little bit and played a few games it’s fine,” Fabregas told BBC Sport. “I can’t say it’s a wonderful thing, but it will not make you play bad, that will not be an excuse.”
Fabregas, based on his own experience, believes Mbappe could be ready to play on Friday. He recounted breaking his nose while playing for Chelsea against Stoke and then being fitted for a mask within 36 hours.
“It was very fast, they did the fitting and measurements of my face and then after a couple of hours I tried it,” Fabregas recalled. “It fitted quite well and after just a couple of training sessions I was straight into playing, so it was very fast and comfortable to wear.”
Mbappe’s readiness for the match against the Netherlands will depend on his recovery and adaptation to the protective mask. The French team and fans alike are eagerly awaiting the update on their star player’s condition.
