Euro 2024: Kylian Mbappe teases new mask to be worn against Netherlands in line with UEFA regulations
Kylian Mbappe teased the new mask he'll be wearing ahead of France's clash against the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 on Friday, June 21. The Frenchman shared a snap of France's kit alongside a black mask on his Instagram hours before kick-off.
Mbappe broke his nose in France's Euro 2024 opening game against Austria towards the end of match. He collided with Austrian defender Kevin Danso and hit his nose on his shoulder.
The Real Madrid star turned up in training on Thursday wearing a tricolor mask with the French flag colors, blue white, and red. However, UEFA rules dictate that players can only wear single-color medical equipment on the pitch, including masks.
"Medical equipment worn on the field of play must be a single colour and free of team and manufacturer identification," UEFA's rules state.
Kylian Mbappe would not be allowed to wear his tricolor mask on the pitch so the Frenchman shifted to a black one ahead of kickoff.
Kylian Mbappe will not start in Euro 2024 Group D clash of France vs Netherlands
Les Bleus have released their official starting lineup for their second group stage match in the Euro 2024 against Netherlands. Kylian Mbappe does not feature in the starting line-up.
Coach Didier Deschamps sounded hopeful on Thursday about Mbappe's inclusion in the line-up. However, ESPN had reported that he's likely to be on the bench.
"Everything is going well, after the shock we had. He was able to take part in some light exercises yesterday, and that will be the same this evening. Everything is evolving in the right direction. We'll do all we can to ensure that he'll be available tomorrow," Deschamps' statement from Thursday said.
Deschamps apprehensions likely came true as Kylian doesn't feature in France's opening lineup for tonight's game. However, he could come in as a substitute if the player and the coach feels up to it.
If France win against the Dutch today, they will qualify for the Round of 16. In that case, Deschamps could let Mbappe rest for the final match so he's available for the crucial knockout stages in the Euro 2024.
Les Bleus won 1-0 against Austria in their opening match on June 17 with Wober's own goal leading the way. Kylian Mbappe missed a crucial one-on-one chance for the French in their opening game. The focus is on getting a comfortable win against the Dutch today to qualify for the next round.