New Delhi: Kylian Mbappe sustained an injury during the first matchday when France played against Austria in a Group D fixture of UEFA Euro 2024. In the 85th minute, France received a corner and Griezmann took it. Mbappe tried to put his head on the ball and clashed with an Austrian defender, falling into an awkward position.
The French talisman suffered a horrible injury that prevented him from continuing to play in the fixture. He was taken off by Deschamps soon after that.
Deschamps announced in the post-match conference that their star man will miss out on the remaining group-stage matches. France still have to play against contenders, Netherlands, and Poland. Both fixtures can pose a threatening challenge to the French side, considering their average showing against Austria. Playing the next two fixtures without Mbappe will be a major blow to the Deschamps. He said in the Press Conference, “He’s got a really bad nose,“.
He further added: “We’ll have to wait and see, the medical staff are dealing with it. We’ll have to see what’s going to be done and then how long it will take. It’s very bad news for us tonight. Obviously, the French team with or without him, this is not the same thing. I hope he can be there.”
“If not Mbappe, then who?”
DUSSELDORF, GERMANY – JUNE 17: Olivier Giroud of France celebrate after winning the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Austria and France at Düsseldorf Arena on June 17, 2024 in Dusseldorf, Germany. (Photo by Oliver Kaelke/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
This question has been a heated point of debate in the social media platforms among fans. In the 26-men squad brought up for Euro 2024, Kolo Muani and Giroud can be considered as the proper number nine replacement for Mbappe.
The World Cup winner, Giroud, has been a crucial squad player for Deschamps due to his reliable and consistent performances for Les Bleus. Karim Benzema and Deschamps do not share a friendly relationship, resulting in the Ballon d’Or winner not getting called up for France, leaving France to choose among Kolo Muani, Giroud, and Griezmann as possible replacements.
Antoine Griezmann has 82 goal contributions in 130 appearances for France, making him a reliable option for Deschamps to play up-front. However, the French manager has played Griezmann in the midfield to utilise his creativity. Griezmann is a natural in the number nine role, and he can be a considerable threat in the front line.
If not Griezmann, Olivier Giroud will most likely be the replacement in the middle. The 37-year-old striker has 73 goal contributions in 134 appearances for France. Deschamps has relied on him to play a back-up role since he was appointed the France National Football Team manager.
Randall Kolo Muani is a viable option as well. The 25-year-old has pace, flair, and vision similar to Mbappe. He has six goal contributions in 17 appearances for France. Hence, Mbappe’s injury can be his chance to prove himself in the Les Bleus jersey. Deschamps might try the PSG striker, and Kolo Muani must take the opportunity to shine.
Kylian Mbappe is expected to return to the starting XI once the knockout rounds start. France is a title favourite, and are expected to qualify for the next round comfortably.
Kylian Mbappe sustained an injury during the first matchday when France played against Austria in a Group D fixture of UEFA Euro 2024. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
