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Published on June 17, 2024 at 11:46 p.m. by
George Boxall
Mbappé faces surgery and extended absence after injury in EURO 2024 opener
The beginnings of Kylian Mbappé as captain of The french team at Euro 2024 took a dramatic turn after a suspected broken nose during France’s 1-0 win over Austria. Former France team doctor Fabrice Bryand has estimated that the star striker will likely require surgery and will be sidelined for a minimum of 10 days. According to the TeamMbappé got into an ambulance to be transferred to the University Hospital of Düsseldorf, where he is to have surgery.
The injury occurred late in the match when Mbappé collided with the Austrian central defender Kevin Danso during an aerial challenge. Danso’s shoulder hit Mbappé’s face, causing an immediate and significant nosebleed. Austrian goalkeeper Patrick Pentz quickly sought medical assistance as blood flowed from Mbappé’s nose, staining his white jersey with The french team.
Despite the severity of the injury, Mbappé returned to the field briefly to help keep the clock ticking, receiving a booking for wasting time before being replaced by Olivier Giroud.
‘It’s only a nose, but it’s very embarrassing for us’ – Deschamps
After the match, French coach Didier Deschamps confirmed the likelihood of a broken nose. “A broken nose? Apparently yes. He doesn’t have a straight nose at all. We’ll see. Obviously, that’s the negative of tonight. It’s just a nose, but it’s very embarrassing for us,” Deschamps told TF1.
Bryand’s assessment raises concerns over Mbappé’s availability for the rest of the tournament. “A return in the latter stages of the competition would be the minimum, but a complete withdrawal is far from out of the question,” Bryand said. The potential operation and recovery period raises serious doubts over Mbappé’s future in the tournament and casts a shadow over France’s campaign, which is aiming for European glory.
