Kylian Mbappe, the new Real Madrid signing, broke his nose during France's 1-0 victory over Austria in the Euro 2024 group stage. Despite initial fears, it was confirmed that Mbappe would not miss the remainder of the tournament. However, he needs to wear a protective mask while playing. This protective measure, however, has raised concerns with UEFA due to its design, reported by GOAL.

During a recent training session, Mbappe was seen wearing a facemask decorated in the blue, white, and red colors of the French flag. This design, though patriotic, could violate UEFA's equipment regulations. According to Article 42 of these regulations, “Medical equipment worn on the playing field must be of a single color and must not allow the team or manufacturer to be identified.” This rule is intended to maintain uniformity and prevent any potential marketing or sponsorship issues on the field.

UEFA regulations

The mask Mbappe wore in training might not be allowed in the actual matches unless it adheres to UEFA's strict guidelines. This means Mbappe will have to switch to a plain, single-colored mask to comply with the regulations.

According to RMC Sport, Mbappe has been provided with several alternative masks, including some that are plain and comply with UEFA's rules. However, as of Thursday's training session, the French Football Federation had not yet validated any of these masks for match use. This is expected to be resolved before France’s next game.

France's next match is a crucial one against the Netherlands. Both teams won their opening games, with the Netherlands securing a 2-1 victory over Poland. This upcoming clash is likely to determine who tops their group.

Kylian Mbappe’s impact

Mbappe is a key player for France. His presence on the field can significantly impact the team's performance and strategy. Didier Deschamps, the French national team coach, will want to ensure that all necessary measures are in place for Mbappe to play, including adhering to UEFA's equipment regulations.

Mbappe's return to training, even with a broken nose, demonstrates his commitment and resilience. Wearing a protective mask is essential for his safety, but compliance with UEFA's rules is equally important to avoid any penalties or disqualifications. The French Football Federation is expected to validate an appropriate mask that Mbappe can wear during the match against the Netherlands.

What’s next for Mbappe and France

As the Euro 2024 progresses, all eyes will be on Mbappe to see how he performs while managing his injury. The match against the Netherlands will be a significant test for France, and Mbappe's role will be crucial.

In the final hours before the game, the French team will finalize their preparations, including ensuring that all players, especially Mbappe, are equipped correctly according to UEFA regulations. This will involve validating the protective mask and making sure it meets all requirements.

Kylian Mbappe's situation highlights the challenges athletes face when balancing performance, safety, and regulatory compliance. As France prepares for a pivotal match against the Netherlands, ensuring that Mbappe can play safely and legally will be a top priority for the team. The resolution of the facemask issue will be closely watched by fans and officials alike, adding another layer of intrigue to Euro 2024.