France forced to do without Mbappé because of a faulty pitch
Captain Kylian Mbappé returned to Madrid after injuring his knee on a poor‑quality pitch in Turkey, leaving the French with a squad reduced to twenty‑two players ahead of the Nations League match against Belgium at the King Baudouin Stadium. Andy Diouf and Lucas Da Cunha could then earn their first start.
Defective pitch in Izmit
The medical staff blamed the poor quality of the ground at Kocaeli Stadium in Izmit as the main factor behind the injury. The players voiced their displeasure, saying the uneven turf caused the captain to lose his balance. According to reports, the surface was water‑logged and slippery, which facilitated the fall.
Mbappé was injured just after he had scored the 1‑0 winning goal against Turkey, his 67th goal for the French. The impact occurred as he was striking the ball, before his left knee twisted. He was immediately replaced by Desiré Doué, who took over on the pitch.
Impact on the Nations League
The French arrived in Brussels with a squad reduced to twenty‑two players, Zidane having chosen not to call up a last‑minute replacement. Coach Zinedine Zidane is planning a rotation of his attack for the Nations League match against Belgium. He is relying on the players already available to cover the captain’s absence.
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Andy Diouf and Lucas Da Cunha, newcomers to the squad, could earn their first start against Belgium. Their inclusion reflects Zidane’s desire to refresh the attacking midfield. In addition to the match against Belgium, Mbappé will miss the fixtures against Italy at the Stade de France and against Belgium, a total of three Nations League matches.
Recovery timetable and Real Madrid stakes
Exams in Madrid revealed a ‘hypertension’ of the knee, described as a mild strain that could heal in ten to twelve days. Zidane said: “The problem does not seem significant, Kylian will have to return to Madrid where he will be monitored by his club’s staff.” This assessment reassures the French staff about a quick return.
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Real Madrid hope to have Mbappé available for the match against Roma at the Olympic on October 14, the opening day of the Champions League group stage. José Mourinho is awaiting his return after losing Valverde and Konaté, and has said he does not want to take unnecessary risks. In the meantime, the club will face Villarreal on October 10, then Sevilla on the 18th, Leipzig on the 21st and Barcelona on October 25.