Kylian Mbappe wears a mask during a France training session (Image: French FA)
Kylian Mbappe could play for France against the Netherlands on Friday night despite suffering a gruesome broken nose during their hard-fought victory over Austria in Dusseldorf.
Mbappe had to make a hospital visit post-match but the soon-to-be Real Madrid sensation looks set to feature against the Netherlands in Leipzig just days later.
France coach Didier Deschamps is contemplating thrusting Mbappe back into the spotlight for a tantalising group stage match-up.
“I can confirm that Kylian is feeling better and all is evolving well to see him available,” Deschamps disclosed.
“Everything is going in the right direction after the major shock he had, and with the consequences of course. Yesterday, he was able to go out and do a little activity. It’s moving in the right direction to ensure that it can be available tomorrow.”
France captain Kylian Mbappe arrives for a training session at Euro 2024 (Image: Jens Schlueter/UEFA)
Donning a protective mask, Mbappe was seen training with his team-mates on Thursday, signalling his potential readiness for the match.
In an astounding backtrack from his previous stance, Deschamps appears willing to listen to the extensive influence Mbappe commands both in France and within the team.
“I try to have discussions with the players, those who are starting, those who aren’t,” the national manager stated. “This includes Kylian. I have to manage the group and I will manage the group.”
Mbappe, eager to bounce back from his clash with Austria’s Kevin Danso, left the hospital at 1am on Tuesday and immediately took to social media, enquiring “any ideas for masks”.
Kylian Mbappe suffered a broken nose during the match against Austria (Image: Getty Images)
Although initial talks at the French camp seemed to lean towards him missing out, Mbappe’s participation in a light Wednesday session, donning a protective mask and reduced swelling, sparked further discussions.
He later proclaimed on social media: “Without risks, there are no victories.”
His team-mate Antoine Griezmann said: “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.
“I think the entire team will have to adapt. I really don’t know if he’s going to be playing.
“Having one of the best players in the world, or not, definitely changes things. We’ll see how it goes. It doesn’t matter what the team selection is tomorrow. We always have to adapt, adapt to our opponents and attack their weak points.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1913650/France-Kylian-Mbappe-injury-update