France 'Uncertain' if Mbappe Can Face Netherlands After Nasal Injury

Kylian Mbappe's participation in France's upcoming match against the Netherlands remains uncertain following a nasal fracture sustained during their opening Euro 2024 win against Austria.

The 25-year-old striker exited the game during France's 1-0 victory on Monday after a collision with Austria's Kevin Danso. Mbappe's nose struck Danso's shoulder in an aerial challenge, forcing him off the field.

Subsequently, Mbappe was taken to a hospital in Dusseldorf, where the fracture was confirmed. He has since returned to the French national team's camp. The French Football Federation (FFF) announced that an update on their captain's condition will be provided on Wednesday.

Despite the injury, which does not require surgery, a protective mask will be crafted for Mbappe. He played a crucial role in France's victory against Austria, as his cross led to an own goal by defender Max Wober.

France's head coach Didier Deschamps commented on Mbappe's condition in a post-match news conference, stating that the striker was "not doing well."

Mbappe, who has scored 47 goals in 80 appearances for France, has yet to score in a European Championship. After the tournament, he is set to join Real Madrid following the expiration of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

The use of a protective mask will likely be necessary for Mbappe's return to play. BBC pundit and former Spain international Cesc Fabregas, who has previously played while wearing a mask, stated that it "will not make you play bad."

"It's a bit uncomfortable [but] I think once you start training with it a little bit and play a few games it's fine," Fabregas told BBC Sport. "I can't say it's a wonderful thing, but it will not make you play bad, that will not be an excuse."

Fabregas, drawing from his own experience, believes Mbappe could be ready to play on Friday. The former midfielder broke his nose while playing for Chelsea against Stoke and traveled to Milan with the club's doctor for a mask fitting within 36 hours.

"It was very fast, they did the fitting and measurements of my face and then after a couple of hours I tried it," Fabregas recalled. "It fitted quite well and after just a couple of training sessions I was straight into playing, so it was very fast and comfortable to wear."