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Julien Laurens, Correspondent
Kylian Mbappé is hoping to return for France‘s next game at Euro 2024 against Netherlands on Friday after suffering a broken nose in their opening match of the tournament, sources have told ESPN.
The France star has avoided surgery on the injury, which would have ruled him out for the competition, and will instead wear a custom-made mask whenever he does return.
He is a doubt for their next game — scheduled for Friday against the Netherlands — although sources have told ESPN that Mbappé and the French medical team are hoping he will be able to play.
France earned a 1-0 win against Group D opponents Austria on Monday, marking a positive start for Didier Deschamps’ side as they chase a major title to follow up their victory at the 2018 World Cup.
Mbappé, who was taken to hospital in Düsseldorf after the match, posted on social media: “Any ideas for a mask?”
Kevin Danso, the Austria defender who Mbappé collided with, sent a message of sympathy to the France forward on Tuesday.
“I wish him a good recovery and I hope he can quickly get back on the pitch,” Danso said on social media.
“To French supporters: I am sorry that Kylian Mbappe was injured from our duel,” added Danso, whose back was turned when Mbappe’s face struck his shoulder.
Information from Reuters contributed to this report.