Kylian Mbappé's gradual return to the French national team is becoming more evident. After remaining on the bench during the draw against the Netherlands (0-0), Mbappé participated in a training session against the U21 team of Paderborn. The Frenchman wore a black mask to protect his nose, which he fractured during the match against Austria (1-0) after a collision with defender Kevin Danso.
Didier Deschamps, the French coach, explained his decision to keep Mbappé on the bench, emphasizing that every day of recovery is crucial. Deschamps mentioned that if the match had been decisive, he might have considered playing Mbappé, but it was wiser to let him rest. France currently holds four points and is second in Group D, with an upcoming match against Poland on Tuesday.
The uncertainty about Mbappé's participation in the match against the Netherlands remains. However, Mbappé was seen training with the rest of the team at the Red Bulls Arena, which is a positive sign. Deschamps noted that everything is moving in the right direction after the major shock that resulted in Mbappé's broken nose. The coach expressed optimism about Mbappé's availability for the upcoming match.
All 25 French players, including Mbappé, Olivier Giroud, Dayot Upamecano, and Théo Hernandez, who had minor issues recently, were present on the Leipzig pitch for training. The first 15 minutes of the session were open to the media, following customary practice. The team is preparing rigorously for their upcoming challenges.
- Kylian Mbappé's injury has been a significant concern for the French national team. The fracture he sustained in his nose required careful management to ensure his swift recovery. The use of a protective mask during training highlights the seriousness of the injury and the measures taken to protect him.
- Didier Deschamps' cautious approach in handling Mbappé's situation reflects the importance of the player to the team's strategy. Deschamps' comments underline the balance between player health and match importance, showcasing a thoughtful management style.
- The French team's preparation for the upcoming matches is thorough, with all players participating in training sessions despite minor issues. This collective effort indicates a strong team spirit and readiness to face their opponents.
- The media's limited access to training sessions is a common practice aimed at maintaining focus and strategy confidentiality. This controlled exposure ensures that the team's preparations remain undisrupted and strategic plans are kept under wraps.