[2024 European Cup ] Kylian Mbappe hints at Euro 2024 return for France with two goals in Paderborn friendly！



French forward Kylian Mbappe reportedly scored twice and provided two assists in a behind-closed-doors friendly as he prepares for his anticipated Euro 2024 return.

The 25-year-old, set to join Real Madrid, missed France’s 0-0 draw with the Netherlands after breaking his nose in their opening Group D match against Austria.

After assisting France’s winning goal, which came via Austria defender Maximilian Wober’s head, Mbappe collided with Kevin Danso’s shoulder, resulting in a bloody shirt. A substitution mishap followed as the on-field referee did not allow France to make changes, leading Mbappe to return to the pitch without permission to stop the game and receiving a booking.

Mbappe quickly returned to training with a specially designed mask featuring the French flag, their emblem, and his initials. However, he can only wear a plain one during matches.

Despite France’s struggles to break down the Dutch defense, Deschamps chose not to risk Mbappe in the contest. 

Mbappe was part of the squad for the stalemate with the Netherlands but did not play. However, he returned to action on Saturday in a training match against Paderborn’s Under-21s, along with other teammates who did not start against the Netherlands. According to FutbolFantasy, Mbappe excelled with two goals and two assists, playing both 30-minute halves with a black mask and coming out unscathed.

Paderborn's players were reportedly instructed not to challenge Mbappe too hard, allowing him a smooth re-integration into the team. All indications point to his imminent comeback.

PSG’s all-time leading scorer is expected to be fully fit for France’s final group game against already-eliminated Poland at Westfalenstadion on Tuesday evening.

Les Bleus are second in their group due to an inferior goal difference to the Netherlands, who face Austria – just one point behind in third place – at the same time on June 25.

France needs just a point to secure a top-two finish but would likely qualify for the last 16 as one of the best third-placed teams even if both results go against them.