Ethan Mbappé faces injury concern after Estonia game

Ethan Mbappé’s France Espoirs appearance has ended with major concern for the 19-year-old Lille winger and his club. The right-sided attacker was making his first start under coach Gérald Baticle when the problem occurred.

France won 2-0 in Estonia, a result that moved the team closer to qualification for the next European Championship. Mbappé’s evening lasted only 12 minutes, however, after a forceful challenge struck his right ankle as he prepared to deliver a cross. He was unable to continue and was replaced immediately.

Radiological examinations were planned in Estonia to determine whether the blow caused joint or bone damage. Mbappé was due to travel back to France with the squad on Wednesday afternoon, but his remaining involvement in the international gathering was already considered highly doubtful. The outcome also casts uncertainty over his next fixtures for Lille.

Baticle said he was worried after seeing the incident and was waiting for the full medical assessment before drawing conclusions. Mbappé joined Lille from Paris Saint-Germain’s under-19 setup for the 2024-25 season. His listed injury record includes two entries for a dead leg, but the latest assessment will establish the significance of the ankle incident.