As Euro 2024 kicks off this Friday with Germany facing Scotland, the French national team anxiously awaits their first match against Austria on Monday.
However, the spotlight is dimmed by concerns over star player Kylian Mbappé’s fitness, who has missed multiple training sessions due to health issues.
Read more:
- Euro 2024: Kylian Mbappé’s quest for glory and leadership
- Which players must Mbappé emulate to succeed at Real Madrid?
Growing concerns for France’s captain
Kylian Mbappé, who recently transferred to Real Madrid, has been absent from the training ground, sparking worries among fans and teammates alike. After suffering back pain early in the camp and receiving a blow to his left knee, Mbappé’s participation in France’s Euro opener is under scrutiny. His absence from Thursday’s training session, held indoors, marked his fourth missed group session in 16 days, adding to the team’s anxieties.
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Training troubles
Despite being one of the tournament favorites, the French squad faced disappointment as nearly 4,000 supporters who turned up at training were unable to see their captain in action. Mbappé, known for his agility and sharpness, notably underperformed during his last collective training session. Reports highlighted an unusual number of mishandled controls and poor decision-making by the forward, unusual for a player of his caliber.
The pressures of a packed schedule
Mbappé’s recent end of season with Paris Saint-Germain was notably taxing, both physically and mentally, which he openly discussed in a press conference. This heavy load, compounded by his recent injuries, raises concerns about his ability to perform at the high-intensity levels required for the Euro.
The clock is ticking
With the Euro 2024 starting soon for the French team, Coach Didier Deschamps and his staff are under pressure to ensure Mbappé’s readiness. His recent training performances have not only worried the coaching staff but also raised doubts about his impact at the tournament, especially after a promising display against Luxembourg where he scored a goal and provided two assists.
Lionel Messi fires back at Kylian Mbappé 👀 pic.twitter.com/mXAyWBmtF0
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) June 13, 2024
The road ahead
The French team’s success heavily relies on Mbappé’s health and form. As the days narrow down to their first match against Austria, all eyes will be on Mbappé’s recovery and readiness. The team hopes their leading man can overcome these hurdles and return to his best form in time to lead France in their quest for European glory.
As Euro 2024 progresses, the French team’s prospects seem intertwined with Kylian Mbappé’s fitness. His ability to recover and perform will be crucial not just for his team’s success but also for maintaining his stature as one of the world’s leading soccer talents.
