Lille dealt injury blow as Ethan Mbappé faces three-week lay-off

Lille forward Ethan Mbappé could be sidelined for around three weeks after suffering an injury to his right ankle while on international duty with France Under-21s.

The 19-year-old was forced off after only 12 minutes of Tuesday’s 2-0 victory over Estonia following a tackle from an opponent.

According to L’Équipe, Mbappé is expected to be out for three weeks, although the full recovery timeline will need to be confirmed.

Mbappé suffers injury with France U21s

Mbappé was included in the France Under-21 squad for the September international break but could not complete the match after sustaining the ankle problem.

France Under-21 coach Gérald Baticle admitted he was “concerned” about the injury after the game.

A three-week absence would rule Mbappé out of Lille’s Ligue 1 matches against Le Havre on 10 October and Stade Brestois the following week.

Lille also without Mbappé in Champions League

Mbappé has made six appearances for Lille this season, starting five of those matches under manager Davide Ancelotti.

The France Under-21 international has contributed one goal and one assist so far this campaign.

However, his potential absence from Lille’s Champions League fixtures against Arsenal and Galatasaray will not change the club’s plans, as he is already suspended for three European matches following the red card he received against Real Betis.