Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have made a stunning move to rule out French football sensation Kylian Mbappe for their season opener, deepening the ongoing standoff between the Ligue 1 champions and their star player.
The omission comes amid a contract dispute with Mbappe’s club, further highlighting the growing tension between player and team. In agreement with this decision, PSG announced the acquisition of Ousmane Dembele from Barcelona on a five-year deal.
Dembele’s addition marks PSG’s ninth signing this summer, a period that has seen significant player movements, including Lionel Messi’s departure to Inter Miami. As the club prepares to adapt to these changes, it faces the growing prospect of life without both Messi and Mbappe. Mbappe’s reluctance to extend his contract has fueled speculation about his possible departure, with Real Madrid often mentioned as his preferred destination.
PSG’s stance has been clear, with club president Nasser Al-Khalifa insisting that Mbappe must sign a new contract if he wants to stay. The stance is aimed at preventing them from losing one of the world’s top players without receiving a transfer fee. Mbappe’s limited involvement in training and warm-up games underlines the complexity of the situation.
Despite his absence, Mbappe took to social media to extend a warm welcome to Dembele, reflecting the bond forged during their joint triumph at the 2018 World Cup. Dembele, who has extended his contract with Barcelona until 2024, is now embarking on a new journey with PSG after the club triggered his €50m release clause. He expressed his desire to represent PSG and contribute to the development of the club.
Dembele’s arrival adds another French World Cup winner to PSG’s roster, joining the ranks of Mbappe, Presnel Kimpembe, and Lucas Hernandez. The strategic move is part of PSG’s efforts to strengthen their attacking options amid uncertainty over the futures of both Mbappe and Neymar.
Meanwhile, PSG’s newly appointed coach, Luis Enrique, ruled Brazilian forward Neymar out of the season opener due to a “viral syndrome”. The club’s possible willingness to sell Neymar, along with Italian midfielder Marco Verratti, who was not even included in the squad for the Llorente match, illustrates the emerging dynamics within the team.
As PSG navigates the complexities of contract negotiations, new signings, and player management, it begins a new chapter under Luis Enrique. The absence of Mbappe and Neymar from the opening game underlines the challenges the club faces in maintaining stability and competitiveness while dealing with significant changes.
