Kylian Mbappe’s participation in France’s upcoming match against the Netherlands is in doubt after he sustained a broken nose during their opening victory at Euro 2024.
The 25-year-old forward was substituted during Monday’s 1-0 win over Austria after colliding with opponent Kevin Danso’s shoulder during an aerial challenge.
Following the incident, Mbappe was taken to a hospital in Dusseldorf, where medical examinations confirmed the nasal fracture before he returned to the national team’s camp.
The French Football Federation (FFF) stated that a further update on Mbappe’s condition will be provided on Wednesday.
Despite his injury, Mbappe’s contribution to France’s victory over Austria was significant, as his cross led to an own goal by defender Max Wober. Fortunately, surgery is not required for his injury, and the FFF announced plans to create a protective mask for the forward.
During a press conference after Monday’s match, France manager Didier Deschamps expressed concern for Mbappe’s well-being, indicating that the influential player was not feeling well.
Mbappe has amassed 47 goals in 80 appearances for his country but has yet to score in a European Championship tournament.
Following the conclusion of Euro 2024, Mbappe will transition to Real Madrid after his contract with Paris St-Germain expires.
It is likely Mbappe will have to wear a mask when he is deemed fit enough to return to the team.
BBC pundit and former Spain international Cesc Fabregas – who won consecutive Euros in 2008 and 2012 – has previously played in a mask and says “it will not make you play bad”.
“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,” he 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 believes Mbappe will be able to play on Friday, based on his own experiences.
The former midfielder broke his nose while playing for Chelsea against Stoke, before travelling to Milan in Italy with the club’s doctor to be 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,” he 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.”