The French FA has confirmed that Kylian Mbappé has sustained a knee tendon injury. He’s now set to return to Madrid for treatment. The Real Madrid centre-forward scored Les Bleus’ only goal on Friday night to kick off their UEFA Nations League campaign with an away win against Türkiye. On Kocaeli Stadium’s poor pitch, Mbappé overextended his left knee as he buried his 67th international goal with his right foot. The Real Madrid instantly realised something as off as he could only limped to celebrate. Mbappé tried to carry on, but he could not soldier on any longer as he fell to the ground in agony. Désiré Doué replaced him.

Speaking to TF1 in the aftermath of France’s win, Zidane has announced that Mbappé won’t take part in France’s international camp any further. Les Bleus were due to play Belgium away on Monday before two home games at Stade de France against Italy and Belgium in early october. Zidane stopped short at revealing the nature of Mbappé’s injury as medical exams are expected to take place soon. But the 1998 Ballon d’Or winner hints at a potentially serious injury for France’s captain. “He’s not OK. It does not look good, unfortunately. I think he’ll have to go home. We won’t take risks. He overextended his knee while shooting. It’s not really encouraging for him to carry on.“

It remains to be seen whether Zidane will opt to call up another player to fill in for Mbappé for France’s next three games in this extended international break.