France Uncertain About Mbappe’s Availability for Netherlands Match

Kylian Mbappe’s participation in France’s upcoming match against the Netherlands remains uncertain following a broken nose sustained in their opening win at Euro 2024.

The 25-year-old striker exited Monday’s 1-0 victory over Austria after colliding with Kevin Danso’s shoulder during an aerial challenge. The impact led to Mbappe being taken to Dusseldorf hospital, where the fracture was confirmed, before he returned to the national team’s camp.

The French Football Federation (FFF) announced that an update on their captain’s condition will be provided on Wednesday. Despite the injury, Mbappe does not require surgery. Instead, a protective mask will be made for him.

Mbappe was instrumental in France’s win against Austria, as his cross resulted in an own goal by defender Max Wober. However, France’s coach Didier Deschamps commented that the forward was “not doing well” after the incident.

With 47 goals in 80 appearances for France, Mbappe has yet to score in a European Championship. Following the tournament, he is set to join Real Madrid, as his contract with Paris St-Germain expires.

Regarding the necessity of wearing a protective mask, BBC pundit and former Spain international Cesc Fabregas, who has experience playing with a similar injury, stated, “it will not make you play bad.” Fabregas, who won Euros in 2008 and 2012, mentioned that while the mask is “a bit uncomfortable,” players typically adapt quickly.

Fabregas shared his own experience of breaking his nose while playing for Chelsea against Stoke. He traveled to Milan with the club’s doctor for a mask fitting 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.”

Based on his experience, Fabregas believes Mbappe could potentially play on Friday. However, the final decision will depend on further medical assessments and updates from the FFF.