Kylian Mbappe suffered a broken nose during France’s opening game at the European Championship and will have to wear a face mask if he plays on at the tournament.
The French Football Federation said Mbappe would not need surgery but did not specify how long it will take before he is available to play again.
“He will undergo treatment in the coming days, without undergoing surgery immediately,” France’s Football Federation said in a statement. “A mask will be made so as to allow the No. 10 of the French team to consider resuming competition after a period devoted to treatment.”
France delivered a 100th victory for manager Didier Deschamps as they edged a tenacious Austria side 1-0 on Monday. It was by no means a vintage performance and France required an own goal by Austria defender Max Wober shortly before half-time to secure the three points that put them level on three points with the Netherlands who they face next. But to go deep into the tournament, they might need Mbappe’s help.
The French Federation said the decision not to carry out surgery came after he was treated by Dr Franck Le Gall at a Dusseldorf hospital following France’s win.
Mbappe’s face collided with the shoulder of Austria’s Kevin Danso as he attempted a header during the Group D match at Dusseldorf Arena. His nose was badly swollen and blood poured from his face, turning much of his white jersey red.
Austria goalkeeper Patrick Pentz signalled for urgent medical assistance.
“We’re worried to see Kylian leave the field like that,” France midfielder N’Golo Kante said later.
France coach Deschamps could not immediately say if Mbappe’s tournament was over when questioned by media after the game.
“I don’t have the elements in my hands,” he said. “I cannot at this stage give the answer.”
Mbappe’s injury is a big deal for France, as he is the country’s best player and the biggest star of the tournament. It’s a concern for Real Madrid, too, after he left Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent to sign for the Spanish club in the off-season.
The speed of his return will depend on the level of discomfort he feels. A broken nose can take weeks to heal and the National Health Service in the UK says sport should be avoided for “at least six weeks if there’s a chance your face might be hit”.
Mbappe appeared to see the lighter side of his injury. “Any ideas for masks?” he posted on X.
