Kylian Mbappé: The Struggles and Determination at Euro 2024

Kylian Mbappé, the talismanic forward of the French national football team, is facing a tough challenge at Euro 2024 as he battles multiple setbacks on the field.

With a broken nose requiring a restrictive face mask and ongoing fitness concerns from the end of the club season, Mbappé’s performance at the tournament has been far from his usual stellar self.

Despite scoring just one goal, a penalty shot, Mbappé remains resolute, focused on the ultimate prize of lifting the Henri Delaunay Cup in Berlin on July 14.

In a recent quarterfinal match against Portugal in Hamburg, Mbappé had to request a halftime substitution due to exhaustion, sacrificing a possible penalty opportunity in the ensuing shootout, which France ultimately won 5-3 thanks to Joao Felix‘s miss.

France’s head coach, Didier Deschamps, confirmed that Mbappé’s decision to come off was for the team’s benefit, as the star player was not in optimal condition to continue.

Having acknowledged his lack of peak fitness before the Portugal game, Mbappé expressed the need for a solid pre-season to regain his top form, especially as he prepares to join Real Madrid following the expiration of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

Despite the challenges, Mbappé has shone in off-field matters, using his platform to encourage voter participation in snap elections and caution against the rise of far-right ideologies.

France’s journey in Euro 2024 has been marked by a defensive stronghold, with the team yet to score a goal from open play; a stark contrast to Mbappé’s hat trick in the 2022 World Cup final.

As France faces Spain in the semifinals, Mbappé remains optimistic, emphasizing the team’s defensive solidity while acknowledging the need to address their offensive efficiency.

While disappointed at watching the penalty shootout from the sidelines, Mbappé’s determination and team spirit remain unwavering as he vows to give his all for France’s Euro 2024 campaign.