Will Kylian Mbappe play vs. Netherlands at Euro 2024? Fears of France star’s absence after broken nose in opener

Kylian Mbappe was expected to lead France’s charge at Euro 2024 as their star player and captain but there are immediate concerns already following France’s opener against Austria.

Les Bleus secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Austria but the main talking point was Mbappe going down injured with a broken nose at the end of the match amidst an aerial clash with Kevin Danso.

After a disappointing Euro 2020, where France exited early and Mbappe struggled to make an impact with zero goals and only one assist, the star forward will be eager to redeem himself in Germany. And with a transfer to Real Madrid confirmed, Mbappe will be keen to showcase his talents and impress his new club owners.

However, his injury could curtail his involvement in Germany and potentially scupper France’s bid to become European champions for the first time in 22 years.

Here, The Sporting News look at his schedule of matches at Euro 2024, and when you can see the France star in action next at the finals.

MORE: Where will Kylian Mbappe play for Real Madrid?

Kylian Mbappe next match for France at Euro 2024France next play against the Netherlands on June 21 in a huge clash that could decide who tops Group D. 

Opposition: NetherlandsDate: June 21, 2024Kickoff time: 9 p.m. local (3 p.m. ET)Tournament stage: Group D, matchday 2However, it’s unlikely that Mbappe will suit up for that game. While the 25-year-old’s broken nose did not require surgery, it’s thought that he may have to miss some time before passing fit to play.

According to French broadcaster CANAL+, Mbappe will not play against the Netherlands, needing time to recover from his injury before he can return to the field with a protective mask. His status for the Group D finale against Poland is unclear, but it’s thought that he would return to the pitch for the knockout stage at the latest, should France reach that far.

This was corroborated by RMC Sport journalist Fabrice Hawkins, who claimed that Mbappe will not be risked against the Netherlands even if fit to play, although he could return in the ensuing match against Poland, and a decision will not be made on that game until closer to kickoff.

France Euro 2024 groupFrance were drawn into Group D of Euro 2024. They will face Austria, the Netherlands and Poland, the winners of playoff path A.

MORE: Euro 2024 schedule of matches and latest results, updated LIVE

Group DFranceAustriaNetherlandsPolandFrance Euro 2024 match schedule and resultsFrance’s first game was against Austria in Dusseldorf on June 17 that saw Mbappe fire a blank. The big match against the Netherlands follows on June 21 in Leipzig, and they will finish the group stage against Poland on June 25 in Dortmund.

Fixture/ResultDateVenueKO Time (Local, CET)Austria 0-1 FranceJune 17, 2024Düsseldorf (Merkur Spiel-Arena)9 p.m.Netherlands vs. FranceJune 21, 2024Leipzig (Red Bull Arena)9 p.m.France vs. PolandJune 25, 2024Dortmund (Westfalenstadion)6 p.m.

Author(s)

Vishal Bhawani is a content producer for The Sporting News’ India edition.