Kylian Mbappe, France's star forward, has managed to avoid surgery after suffering a serious nose break during Euro 2024. Instead, he will wear a custom mask to protect his injury as he continues to play in the tournament, reported by GOAL.

In the opening match of Euro 2024, France narrowly defeated Austria 1-0. Mbappe played a crucial role in the victory, with his swift move into the box and precise cross leading to Maximilian Wober's own goal. However, the match took a painful turn for Mbappe when he collided with Austrian defender Kevin Danso late in the game. The clash left Mbappe with a severe nose injury, causing immediate concern about his availability for the rest of the tournament.

The 25-year-old forward, soon to join Real Madrid, was visibly in distress as he bled profusely from his nose. Medical assessments quickly confirmed that he had suffered a significant break. Given Mbappe's pivotal role in the French team, this injury raised alarms about his participation in the ongoing Euro 2024 matches.

French Football Federation's statement

The French Football Federation (FFF) issued a statement addressing Mbappe's condition and the steps being taken to manage it. According to the FFF, Mbappe will not require surgery but will be fitted with a protective mask. The statement read:

“Kylian Mbappe suffered a broken nose during the second half of the Austria v France match this Monday in Duesseldorf. 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 Duesseldorf hospital. Kylian Mbappe 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.”

France's head coach, Didier Deschamps, expressed his concern over Mbappe's injury, acknowledging the significant impact it has on the team. Deschamps said:

“He's got a really bad nose. We'll have to wait and see, the medical staff are dealing with it. We'll have to see what's going to be done and then how long it will take. It's very bad news for us tonight. Obviously, the French team with or without him, this is not the same thing. I hope he can be there.”

Kylian Mbappe's perspective

Mbappe was discharged from the hospital around 1 AM following his injury. Despite the setback, he remains hopeful of continuing in the tournament with the aid of the custom mask. This resilience highlights Mbappe's dedication and importance to the French squad.

The 25-year-old later jokingly posted on X and asked for suggestions for what type of mask he should wear the next time he takes the field from his fans. He wrote, “Any ideas for masks?”

France is keen to have their talismanic captain back as soon as possible. They are scheduled to face the Netherlands on Friday in their next Group D match. Following that, their final group stage game will be against Poland on June 25. The French team and fans alike are hopeful that Mbappe will be fit enough to contribute significantly to these crucial fixtures.

Mbappe's injury has undoubtedly cast a shadow over France's Euro 2024 campaign. His presence on the field is not only a morale booster for his teammates but also a significant factor in France's attacking strategy. As he undergoes treatment and adapts to playing with the protective mask, the team will be closely monitoring his recovery.

Kylian Mbappe's determination to play through a serious injury underscores his importance to the French national team. While the protective mask will allow him to return to the pitch, his performance and comfort level will be crucial in the upcoming matches. France's hopes in Euro 2024 are heavily tied to Mbappe's ability to overcome this setback and lead his team to victory. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Mbappe's remarkable resilience and France's bid for glory.