France’s star forward, Kylian Mbappé, remains in a recovery race against time as the team prepares for their final group stage match of Euro 2024 against Poland on Tuesday. Coach Didier Deschamps offered positive updates on Mbappé’s condition but remained tight-lipped on his participation in the upcoming game.
Mbappé fractured his nose during the opening match against Austria and missed the subsequent goalless draw against the Netherlands. Deschamps, speaking on the French television program Telefoot, reassured fans that Mbappé’s recovery is progressing well.
“He’s recovering from the blow, the bruising is going down every day, and he’s getting used to his mask,”
Deschamps said while keeping his cards close to his chest regarding Mbappé’s involvement against Poland.
France’s attacking performance has come under scrutiny following the Netherlands draw, with their only goal in the last three games being an own goal in the Austria match.
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Deschamps, however, deflected questions about potential changes to the attack, hinting at a lineup focused on securing qualification and a strong group-stage finish.
Meanwhile, Mbappé’s teammates revealed his eagerness to return to the pitch. Defender Jonathan Clauss reported that Mbappé participated in a training match on Saturday, scoring a goal while wearing his protective mask. “He was 100% at it,” Clauss said. Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni added,
“I think he wants to play the next match. He might like to play without the mask, but the doctor isn’t going to give him the choice.”
The decision on Mbappé’s participation rests with the medical team. With France on the verge of securing a knockout stage berth, all eyes will be on Mbappé’s fitness level and whether he’ll be able to contribute with or without the mask in their final group stage clash.
