France Under-21s moved to the edge of Euro qualification in Estonia, but the 2-0 win was overshadowed by injury concerns for Ethan Mbappé and Senny Mayulu.
Mbappé, making his first start for the French U21 side, was forced off after only 12 minutes following a heavy challenge to his right ankle. The Lille winger will undergo medical checks before the squad return to France on Wednesday afternoon, with an X-ray expected in Estonia.
Head coach Gérald Baticle admitted he was worried after seeing the incident, despite hoping the initial concern proves unfounded.
“As I speak, I am concerned,” Baticle said after the match. “I hope I am worrying about nothing, but I saw the challenge on the midfielder and I do not like seeing actions like that. I do not like seeing my players put in those situations. We are now waiting for the full results of the examinations.”
Mayulu also forced off in first half
France lost a second player before half-time when Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Mayulu left the field in the 41st minute with discomfort in his left thigh.
No tests have yet been scheduled for the 19-year-old, who was treated by France team doctor Emmanuel Zaccheo. The staff will assess how the injury reacts on Wednesday before deciding whether further action is needed.
“As soon as we saw he was in pain, we made the substitution rather than take a risk,” Baticle said. “Because he came off early enough, we will see more clearly once things have settled, on Wednesday.”
Both Mbappé and Mayulu could now face a curtailed international camp, depending on the medical assessments.
Ganiou taken off as substitution options disappear
Lens defender Ismaëlo Ganiou also had his minutes managed in Estonia. The right-back, still building his fitness, played 45 minutes after competing with Jaydee Canvot for a starting place.
The original plan had been for Ganiou to remain on the pitch for longer than one half. However, Mbappé’s early exit and Mayulu’s first-half substitution left Baticle with only one remaining stoppage in which to make changes.
Ganiou was therefore withdrawn at half-time, a move that did not count as one of the side’s three substitution windows.
Despite the disruption, France’s victory means they require just one point from their final two qualifying matches to secure their place at the European Under-21 Championship.
