Euro 2024: 'It wasn't nice' - Robert Lewandowski warns Mbappe about sporting custom mask

Robert Lewandowski has warned Kylian Mbappe that the custom mask worn by the French striker will affect his vision and could also have a significant impact on his game. The Polish striker was also forced to wear the protective mask, way back in 2015, when he was still playing for Bayern Munich.

Mbappe suffered a fractured nose during the league match againstAustria last week. He was named on the bench in the match against the Netherlands but remained an unused substitute as France played a goalless draw.

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“When I had to wear a mask myself, it wasn't nice. It's quite annoying, especially in the penalty area, I had problems, I didn't react, I couldn't see, my field of vision was hampered," said Lewandowski.

"It's a few milliseconds but it can slow down a player. It's a challenge, it's not pleasant, but of course a player's health is more important. For a competition, emotions are very high and everyone wants to play at all costs. I understand the difficulties he faces," he added.

'Feels like 3D glasses'

Mbappe broke his nose after a hefty collision with Austria and Lens defender Kevin Danso, deep into the second half with the French side leading 1-0.

After the accident, Mbappe was rushed to the hospital where results showed that his condition was not too serious but might require a significant recovery period.

While earlier reports claimed that Mbappe might remain missing till the quarterfinal stage, manager Didier Deschamps naming him on the bench against the Dutch side came as a relief to the fans.

“Breathing, no. But vision, yes. It limits vision a little. It's supposed to protect so in certain situations, it limits the angle of view. A greater risk of playing in the middle? No, the contacts are everywhere, in all the duels. It all depends on the position," said Deschamps on Mbappe facing difficulties in the mask.

"You have to get used to it, it feels like you have 3D glasses. It's better every day. He was in our training sessions. The bruise has gone down a lot. He's getting used to the mask. He wants to play, he's raring to go. He wanted to play against the Netherlands and he wants to play [against Poland].”

Mbappe first sported the mask with French flag colours during a training session. However, it was soon revealed that Mbappe would not be allowed to use the said mask in the match as UEFA rule stipulates that "medical equipment worn on the fieldmust be of a single colour and must not allow the team or manufacturer to be identified'.

France squareup against Poland at the Signal Iduna Park on Tuesday (Jun 25) and a win would help them top the group.

(With inputs from agencies)