Kylian Mbappe “remains uncertain” to play in France’s clash with the Netherlands after breaking his nose in their first Euro 2024 victory.
The 25-year-old forward was forced off during Monday’s 1-0 win over Austria after his face hit opponent Kevin Danso’s shoulder following an aerial challenge.
Mbappé was taken to Dusseldorf hospital, where the rupture was confirmed, before returning to the national team camp.
The French Football Federation (FFF) said a further update on their captain will be provided on Wednesday.
Mbappe, who played an important role in France’s victory over Austria when his cross was headed into his own goal by defender Max Wober, does not require surgery for his injury.
The FFF had already informed that a protective mask would be made for the attacker.
At a press conference after Monday’s game, France coach Didier Deschamps said talisman Mbappe was “not well”.
He scored 47 goals in 80 appearances for his country, although he did not score a goal in any European Championship.
He will join Real Madrid after the tournament once his contract with Paris St-Germain expires.
Mask ‘will not be an excuse’
It is likely that Mbappé will have to wear a mask when he is deemed fit to return to the team.
BBC commentator and former Spanish international Cesc Fabregas – who won back-to-back Euros in 2008 and 2012 – has previously played with a mask and says “it won’t make you play badly”.
“It’s a little uncomfortable [but] I think once you start training a bit and play a few games, it’s fine,” he told BBC Sport.
“I can’t say it’s a wonderful thing, but it won’t make you play badly, it won’t be an excuse.”
Fabregas believes Mbappe will be able to play on Friday, based on his own experience.
The former midfielder broke his nose while playing for Chelsea against Stoke, before traveling to Milan, Italy, with the club doctor to fit a mask within 36 hours.
“It was very quick, they adjusted and measured my face and after a few hours I tried it on”, he recalled.
“It fit really well and after just a few training sessions I started playing, so it was very quick and comfortable to use.”
