Kylian Mbappé ankle injury update ahead of France’s World Cup semi vs Spain

Kylian Mbappé has given France’s World Cup hopes a lift with a reassuring update on his ankle injury ahead of Tuesday’s semifinal clash with Spain.

Mbappé limped off during France’s 2-0 quarterfinal win over Morocco on July 9 after suffering what he later described as a “minor ankle injury.” The striker told reporters afterward he felt “completely fine,” but his early exit left fans uneasy. France’s medical staff have not confirmed the exact nature of the damage, leaving his availability for the July 14 semifinal in doubt.

At 27, Mbappé is not just Les Bleus’ talisman-he’s the tournament’s marquee name alongside Lionel Messi, Harry Kane and Erling Haaland in the Golden Boot race. Mbappé has already bagged eight goals in this World Cup, lifting his career tally to 20 across three tournaments. That haul trails only Messi’s 21, keeping Mbappé in the record books even if he doesn’t add to it this week.

Team doctors have kept the details vague, but three common ankle injuries could explain his exit. A bone fracture-displaced or not-would demand surgery or a cast. A ligament sprain, ranging from a Grade 1 micro-tear to a Grade 3 rupture, could sideline him for weeks. Or it might be tendon trouble, like tendinitis from overuse, which could flare up under match pressure. Without specifics, France’s staff must weigh the risk of playing Mbappé against the reward of his firepower.

France’s semifinal against Spain kicks off on July 14 at 20:00 CET. Mbappé’s status will dominate pre-match headlines, but his teammates insist the squad is ready regardless. If he plays, Mbappé will chase a fourth World Cup semifinal in a row-his third with France. If he doesn’t, France must find a Plan B up front while protecting their biggest star.