MADRID – As Euro 2024 progresses into the semifinals, all eyes are on Kylian Mbappé, captain of the French national team, whose physical condition has become a major concern. France is set to face Spain, a matchup that carries added significance for Mbappé, who is poised to join Real Madrid post-tournament.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Mbappé has struggled throughout the tournament, beginning with a lackluster first round and continuing through to a grueling quarter-final against Portugal, which saw him unable to complete extra time. The management insists on his participation against Spain, despite doubts about his recovery to full fitness within just four days. Prior to Euro 2024, coach Didier Deschamps faced the challenge of integrating a player hampered by a chaotic season end at PSG and minor injuries, compounded by a broken nose sustained in the opening match against Austria.
The French coach expressed a mix of realism and hope regarding Mbappé’s situation. “He could have not been there, you have to take things on the bright side. We did everything we could with him and the medical staff to get him to be there. Kylian is there, even if he is not 100%, and I know that conditions the opponent who is forced to adapt,” Deschamps stated in an interview on Téléfoot.
Despite his diminished threat on the field, Mbappé’s role as a leader remains undisputed within the team. His teammates rally behind him, emphasizing his invaluable contributions and leadership. Randal Kolo Muani, a fellow PSG striker, highlighted Mbappé’s readiness and minimized concerns about his health, “Apart from his little broken nose, he’s fine.”
Mbappé’s leadership was notably evident during the penalty shootout against Portugal, where his guidance resonated with his teammates. Midfielder Youssouf Fofana praised his influence, “Kylian is the player who started three times one-on-one in a World Cup final. When he talks about penalties before a session, we listen to him.”
As the semifinal against Spain approaches, the anticipation around Mbappé’s performance grows, with hopes that he can deliver a memorable performance before his highly anticipated move to Madrid.