The goal had barely settled the match in Turkey when Kylian Mbappé’s left knee became the concern. France’s 1-0 win on Friday was followed by visible discomfort for their leading scorer, with the French Football Federation confirming a tendon injury but offering no timetable for his return.
A knee problem still awaiting a full verdict
Mbappé struck with his right foot in the match against Turkey, but appeared to put significant force through his left leg as he took the shot. He was able to take a few steps afterwards before the pain became more apparent while he jogged back.
The precise origin of the injury cannot be established from television images alone. Medical staff would need the player’s full injury history, the circumstances of the incident and the results of a clinical examination before reaching a reliable conclusion.
- The French Football Federation has described the issue only as a tendon lesion.
- No information has been given on the grade of the injury.
- There is also no confirmed absence period for Mbappé.
- The injury concerns his left knee, rather than the foot used to score.
Hyperextension question raised after Zidane’s comments
Zinédine Zidane initially referred to “hypertension” when discussing Mbappé’s knee after the game, though the relevant medical term appears to be hyperextension.
A hyperextension mechanism can involve the central structures of the knee, including the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments. It can be one of the movements associated with an anterior cruciate ligament rupture, although there was nothing immediately conclusive in the images from the match.
Such a possibility would ordinarily be assessed quickly through an examination carried out soon after the incident. The clinical checks are likely to have ruled out the more serious ligament concern at an early stage, but further tests remain important before France can provide a clearer update.
Scans expected to clarify the tendon damage
If the French staff suspected tendon involvement, an ultrasound examination would be a logical first step. The patellar tendon, situated at the front of the knee, is relatively close to the surface and can be examined in this way.
An MRI scan may still be required to assess deeper areas of the joint and establish the exact location and seriousness of the damage.
- The quadriceps tendon is one potential area of concern.
- The hamstring tendons, towards the back of the thigh, could also be involved.
- The patellar tendon is another possibility given the sequence of Mbappé’s shot, movement and subsequent sharp pain.
Tendon injuries can require a longer recovery than muscle problems because tendons receive less blood supply. A minor tear may be managed differently from a more substantial rupture, while rehabilitation can become particularly difficult if the patellar tendon has been affected.
France are therefore waiting for a more detailed medical verdict at the beginning of Zidane’s tenure. For now, the winning goal in Turkey has been overshadowed by uncertainty over when Mbappé will be fit to return.
