Kylian Mbappe misses France training as Euro 2024 favourites hit by flu virus ahead of opener against Austria

The Real Madrid star and Kingsley Coman were notably absent from the team's training session at their base in Paderborn, West-Rhine Westphalia, on Thursday. This disruption comes at a critical time as Didier Deschamps' side prepare to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign on June 17 against Austria.

Since the French team arrived at the training base on Wednesday, several players have come down with symptoms of the flu. Reports indicate that while the virus is not considered severe, it has led to Coman isolating in his room on Thursday and Deschamps taking a step back from training duties to recover. Ousmane Dembele, another key player for the team, has also been struck by the flu. However, the Paris Saint-Germain forward provided an update on his condition, reassuring fans and teammates alike.

"For me, I am a lot better," Dembele told reporters.

"I had the flu last week and I was the first one but I feel a lot better now. The team is a lot better. Everyone will be okay in a couple of days."

Despite the health setbacks, Deschamps remains optimistic about his team's prospects in the Euros. Reflecting on the challenges, he said, "The objective is around the French national team in terms of what we've achieved and what we're capable of achieving. There are other nations who start out aiming to win, as is the case in competitions like the Champions League. Each year seven or eight teams have the objective to win it, and only one team can. It's the same here and it doesn't come down to much."

France's group stage schedule includes matches against Austria, Poland, and the Netherlands. The team is keen to start strong, especially after their disappointment at the 2022 World Cup where they fell short at the final hurdle to Argentina. Deschamps' experience and tactical acumen will be vital in navigating these early challenges and ensuring that the team is in peak condition heading into the tournament.