France manager Didier Deschamps has given an update on the fitness of Kylian Mbappe ahead of the nation’s Euro 2024 clash against the Netherlands – amid the first image of the forward’s mask emerging.
Mbappe suffered a broken nose in France‘s 1-0 win over Austria after colliding with the shoulder of opposition defender Kevin Danso.
The forward could not complete the match, and it has since been confirmed that he will need to wear a mask for the remainder of his participation in the tournament. He will also need to undergo surgery once Euro 2024 ends.
There have been contrasting reports about Mbappe‘s availability, however, for Friday’s clash against the Netherlands.
But Deschamps given a major update in his pre-match press conference.
The France boss stated: “I can confirm that Kylian Mbappe is feeling better and all is evolving well to see him tomorrow.
“It’s moving in the right direction.”
France forward Antoine Griezmann also commented on Mbappe’s condition: “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.”
Mbappe has only briefly commented on his broken nose on social media, jokingly asking fans for suggestions for a mask to wear for the remainder of Euro 2024.
He also posted to Instagram on Wednesday, with the post reading: ‘Without risks, there are no victories..”
Meanwhile, the first image of the mask he will wear has emerged online – and it uses the blue, white and red colours of the French flag.
The 25-year-old, who will join Real Madrid on July 1, is France’s captain, and was one of their most influential players in the 1-0 win over Austria.
His cross was deflected into the back of the net by Austria and Leeds defender Maximilian Wober for France’s only goal of the game in the first half.
Mbappe did unexpectedly miss a one-on-one effort from close range, however, and will hope that he is fit enough to take on Netherlands and open his tally for the tournament on Friday.
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