Kylian Mbappe will not be ruled out of France’s remaining Euro 2024 matches after breaking his nose during the favourites’ 1-0 victory over Austria on Monday night.
The Real Madrid striker has already rejoined the squad having undergone tests in hospital.
The French Football Federation said in a statement that he will now have “treatment in the coming days, without undergoing surgery immediately”.
“A mask will be made so as to allow the No 10 of the French team to consider resuming competition after a period devoted to treatment.”
The injury had initially sparked fears he would miss the rest of the tournament following an aerial head-on-shoulder collision with Austria’s Kevin Danso late in the Group D game at Dusseldorf Arena.
“I don’t have the elements in my hands,” France coach Didier Deschamps had said, when asked about the severity of the injury.
“He didn’t get off lightly. It is still to be seen. I cannot at this stage give the answer (if he will be ruled out).”
Mbappé’s obvious pain following the incident prompted Austria goalkeeper Patrick Pentz to signal for urgent medical assistance.3
“We’re worried to see Kylian leave the field like that,” France midfielder N’Golo Kante said. “We still don’t know what the situation is. … We hope that it’s not too severe and that he’s back with us for the rest of the competition.”
He tried to play on against Austria, but quickly fell to the ground again, holding his face and prompting whistles and jeers from the opposition fans, who seemed to believe he was time-wasting as France held on for the win.
He was then booked by referee Jesus Gil Manzano and replaced by Olivier Giroud.
“He’s not doing well. He’s with the medical staff. His nose got badly hit that’s for sure.” Deschamps said. “We need to check, but it seems quite complicated, which is really unfortunate for us tonight.”
Mbappe produced a mixed performance before the injury but still showed his importance to France’s hopes of winning a record-equalling third European Championship and its first since 2000.
It was his moment of inspiration that led to Maximilian Wober scoring an own goal in the 38th minute that handed Deschamps his 100th win as France coach.
With a flash of close-ball control, Mbappé beat Phillipp Mwene in the box and crossed in search of a teammate. In Wober’s desperation to cut out the danger, he inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net.
Mbappé was then guilty of a remarkable miss 10 minutes into the second half when failing to hit the target from close range with only the keeper to beat.
Later, Mbappe appeared to try to lighten the mood.
“Any ideas for masks?” he posted on X, likely acknowledging he will need some form of facial protection if he is to play on at the European Championship.
Additional reporting from the Associated Press
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