Kylian Mbappe broke his nose in France’s win over Austria in their opening Euro 2024 match but is still in contention to face Netherlands in a pivotal match for Didier Deschamps’ side
Kylian Mbappe will not be permitted to wear the protective mask he has been using in training.
The France superstar has donned a mask in the colours of the French flag in his preparation for Les Bleus’ match against Netherlands, after breaking his nose against Austria. Mbappe was forced from the field and was rushed to hospital with his ability to continue in the tournament uncertain.
Fortunately for Didier Deschamps and co, surgery can wait until after Euro 2024 is complete. As a result Mbappe is in contention to return to action despite crashing into Kevin Danso’s shoulder just days ago.
Real Madrid’s newest addition will be allowed to wear face protection should he been given the go-ahead to feature against Netherlands. It must be of a single colour however.
UEFA rules state: “Medical equipment worn on the playing field must be of a single colour and must not allow the team or manufacturer to be identified”.
Mbappe looks set to at least be available from the bench on Friday evening. France boss Deschamps appeared hopeful when previewing his side’s clash with the Oranje, though his star’s activity has been light.
“Everything is going in the right direction after this major shock with the consequences,” he said. “Yesterday he went out, he did a little activity. This will also be the case this evening. Things are moving in the right direction to ensure that he is available tomorrow.”
Kylian Mbappe trained on Thursday ( Image: Anthony Dibon/Icon Sport)
“I try to have discussions with the players, those who are starting, those who aren’t,” added the World Cup winner. “This includes Kylian. I have to manage the group and I will manage the group.”
International team-mate Antoine Griezmann also appeared positive in his assessment. The Atletico Madrid ace admitted: “Kylian is doing very well, his nose is less swollen. We will see how he is doing until the end. His feeling will be the deciding factor.”
Should Mbappe be given the decision to make, it sounds like the 25-year-old wouldhave no reservations over playing. Even following a trip to hospital, the forward took to social media asking “any ideas for masks?” in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Then, after his first training session on Wednesday evening, Mbappe appeared to set out his stall. “Without risks, there are no victories,” he posted.
The swelling around Mbappe’s nose appears to have gone down but Real Madrid will be hoping their signing does not take any unnecessary risks. While he joined the club for free from PSG, Mbappe signed a five-year contract worth £12.8million per season, with the prospect of an eye-watering signing-on fee worth between £103m-£128m.