Soccer

Kylian Mbappé to play in mask at Euros after France star sustains broken nose

French captain will not undergo surgery immediately but Didier Deschamps unsure when he will resume playing

French captain Kylian Mbappé suffered a broken nose in the match against Austria and will wear a mask for the rest of the tournament. Photograph: Kevin C Cox/Getty Images

Tue Jun 18 2024 - 12:30

France forward Kylian Mbappé will play in a mask at Euro 2024 to protect his broken nose but a date for his return is still to be decided.

The new Real Madrid signing sustained the injury after colliding with opponent Kevin Danso’s shoulder in the victory over Austria.

Mbappé was taken to hospital in Düsseldorf but does not require surgery and has rejoined the squad for treatment, although his participation in Friday’s game against the Netherlands remains in doubt.

“Kylian Mbappé suffered a broken nose during the second half of the Austria v France match this Monday in Düsseldorf,” said a widely reported statement from the French Football Federation.

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“The captain of the French team was first taken care of by the medical staff and doctor Franck Le Gall, who diagnosed a broken nose. Diagnosis confirmed during radiological examinations at the Düsseldorf hospital.

“Kylian Mbappé has returned to the base camp of the French team. He will undergo treatment in the coming days, without undergoing surgery immediately.

“A mask will be made so as to allow the number 10 of the French team to consider resuming competition after a period devoted to treatment.”

In his post-match press conference France coach Didier Deschamps said Mbappé’s injury was “very unfortunate” for them.

“His nose got badly hit, that’s for sure. We need to check it out, but it seems quite complicated,” he said.

“He didn’t get off lightly. It’s still to be seen [if he will play again]. At this stage, I can’t answer. I don’t know.”

“I wish him a good recovery and I hope he can quickly get back on the pitch,” Danso said on X.

“To French supporters: I am sorry that Kylian Mbappe was injured from our duel,” added Danso, whose back was turned when Mbappé’s face struck his shoulder.

France’s 25-year-old talisman was putting on a brave face, even asking social media followers to suggest ideas for a mask that sparked a flood of memes online.

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