Emmanuel Macron shared a light-hearted momentwith Kylian Mbappe regarding his rumoured move to Real Madrid during a state dinner at the Elysee Palace.
Mbappe, accompanied by the Emir of Qatar, was invited to the dinner on Tuesday, where he had the opportunity to meet with French President Macron.
Upon his arrival, Macron is reported to have jestingly remarked to Mbappe, “You’re going to create problems for us,” with a smile on his face. This remark is believed to allude to Mbappe’s anticipated transfer to Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain, which is owned by Qatar.
Mbappe’s potential move to Madrid has been the subject of long-standing speculation, with Macron previously playing a role in influencing the forward’s future. Macron disclosed that he advised Mbappe against joining Los Blancos in 2021, encouraging him to remain in the French capital.
Despite Macron’s efforts last summer to keep Mbappe at PSG, it now seems likely that the 25-year-old will make the switch to the Santiago Bernabeu during the upcoming transfer window.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/J2Kuhlg5yhk
Macron also spoke about the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which saw Mbappe and France beaten in the final by Argentina: The French president said: “There are also so many beautiful memories, in less serious but as vibrant moments as this 2022 World Cup. Kylian Mbappe’s extraordinary game, the memory of (Randal) Kolo Muani’s saved shot, which still remains bitter in French hearts.
“But that’s the thing with the king of sports. They have had a fantastic tournament, with what I think was the most spectacular final in history. France was there with its fans, its security forces, its companies like RATP and its footballers.”
Madrid has not yet made an official announcement regarding Mbappe’s signing, but the confirmation is anticipated once it is certain that Los Blancos cannot face PSG in this season’s Champions League. Upon his move to the Spanish giants, Mbappe is expected to receive a world-record signing fee for a five-year contract.
Meanwhile, PSG is already scouting for a replacement and has been linked with several players, including Napoli’s Victor Osimhen andManchester United’s Marcus Rashford.
Paris St-Germain manager Luis Enrique emphasised the need for his team to adapt to playing withoutKylian Mbappe following the striker’s substitution during the draw against Rennes.
Mbappe, who has confirmed his move to Real Madrid in the summer, was replaced in the 65th minute after being unable to increase his tally of 21 goals for the season.
“We have to get used to not playing with Kylian, sooner or later, it’s going to happen,” Enrique said.
“When I consider it appropriate, he will play or not play, as all coaches do with their players.
“I want maximum competitiveness for next season. I want every starting player in this PSG team to think that this is a great opportunity. That’s what I’m looking for this season and next season.”
Goncalo Ramos secured a vital point for theLigue 1 frontrunners with a stoppage-time penalty, levelling the score after Amine Gouiri’s first-half goal had given Rennes the lead.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) remains undefeated in their last 18 league matches and currently holds an 11-point advantage at the summit, amassing 54 points from 23 games.
Meanwhile, Rennes sits in seventh place in the league standings.
In an intriguing development, Spanish publication AS has indicated that the deal between Mbappe and Real Madrid is nearing completion, with the final agreement expected to be conclusive.
Previously, it was noted that Real Madrid, the reigning European champions, are hesitant to surpass their wage limit. This implies that Mbappe, aged 25, will likely be on a salary similar to that of Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr.
So what’s stalling the deal?
Since the Galacticos era at Real Madrid, there has been a longstanding tradition of evenly splitting image rights, with a 50/50 division between the club and the player.
This practice initially laid the foundation for the Galactico era, characterized by the financial success of iconic players such as Figo, Ronaldo, David Beckham, and Zinedine Zidane.
However, this arrangement faced disruption with the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009. Madrid found themselves compelled to yield to his salary demands, altering the established norm.
The current negotiation between Real Madrid and Mbappe is primarily centred around the distribution of these image rights. This remains the final point of contention in their discussions, slowing down the finalisation of the deal.
What’s the current discussion?
While the finalisation of this deal is imminent, current discussions centre around the allocation of image rights. It is understood that Mbappe will retain 80% of these rights, with the remaining 20% assigned to Real Madrid.
Currently, Mbappe enjoys full control of his image rights, resulting in an annual income of €20 million solely from advertising. However, joining Madrid will significantly increase his earnings, even with a shared quota, elevating his global status substantially.
Mbappe currently boasts three major sponsors:Nike, Hublot, and Oakley. A move to Real Madrid promises to further enhance his popularity, translating into substantial financial gains for both Madrid and Mbappe, effectively making him a lucrative asset for the club.
However, Chelsea has firmly stated that they have no intention of allowing the 20-year-old to depart. Colwill signed a six-year contract with the club last summer, and Chelsea believes he is content at Stamford Bridge.
Nonetheless, PSG and Liverpool are monitoring the situation, as Chelsea may need to consider offloading academy graduates to address their financial concerns.
The club is under pressure to stay in line with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules — and academy players present “pure profit” in the accounts.
Conor Gallagher, Ian Maatsen (excelling on loan at Borussia Dortmund), Armando Broja (on loan at Fulham) and Trevoh Chalobah are all considered players who could depart to help fund moves for a striker, centre-back and left-back.
Last summer, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Brighton & Hove Albion expressed interest in Levi Colwill, with Brighton making multiple offers that were turned down. Since then, Colwill has emerged as a crucial player in manager Mauricio Pochettino’s lineup, starting in 19 Premier League matches.
Sporting director Luis Campos is spearheading PSG’s interest in Colwill. However, Lille’s Leny Yoro is their primary target, with plans to pursue a left-footed center-back in 2025.
Real Madrid are currently engaged in negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappé regarding a potential free transfer move this summer, sources close to the situation have informed ESPN.
Earlier reports from ESPN on February 15 revealed that Mbappé had informed PSG of his intention to depart the club as a free agent once his contract expires at the end of the ongoing season, with his sights set on a move to Madrid.
Last month, Madrid officially presented a contract offer to the French international, although PSG remained optimistic about persuading their star player to stay.
Sources indicate that Madrid is now optimistic about finalising a deal in the near future. However, as of now, the contract remains unsigned, with some finer details still needing to be resolved.
Mbappé, who recently featured as a substitute in PSG’s 2-0 victory over Nantes in Ligue 1, made a significant impact by scoring a penalty in the 78th minute. He also found the net in PSG’s 2-0 triumph over Real Sociedad in the first leg of the Champions League round-of-16.
Despite ongoing speculation surrounding his future, Mbappé has managed to maintain impressive form this season, tallying a total of 32 goals across all competitions.
Having been a long-standing target for Madrid, Mbappé’s potential arrival at the club is now closer than ever before. Madrid came close to securing his signature in 2022, but a last-minute decision saw Mbappé opt for a contract extension with PSG instead.
Currently leading La Liga with 62 points, Madrid are six points ahead of their closest rivals, Girona, who have a game in hand. Additionally, they secured a 1-0 away victory over RB Leipzig in the first leg of the Champions League round-of-16.
In La Liga this season, midfielder Jude Bellingham has emerged asMadrid’s top scorer with 16 goals, followed by Joselu and Rodrygo with eight goals each, and Vinicius with seven.
The French captain informed his PSG teammates last week that he will depart the club as a free agent at the end of the 2023–24 season.
Since then, Mbappe has been linked with several clubs, including long-time admirers Real Madrid and Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester City.
However, Marca reports that Mbappe has reached an agreement with Real Madrid and will be officially unveiled by the club in the summer.
The report states that Real Madrid first contacted Mbappe in early January to gauge his interest in joining them.
After receiving Mbappe’s approval, managing director Jose Angel Sanchez began negotiations with the player and his mother and agent, Fayza Lamari, over a five-year deal.
While Real Madrid reportedly compromised on Mbappe’s image rights, his salary will be significantly lower than what he earned in his last two years in Paris.
Nevertheless, Mbappe is set to become the club’s highest-paid player, with an estimated annual salary ranging from €15m to €20m, plus bonuses based on performance objectives.
It is expected that Real Madrid will introduce Mbappe to their fans sometime in July, possibly between his participation in the Euros and the Paris Olympics with the French national team.
Meanwhile, Mbappe remains focused on PSG, who currently hold a 13-point lead at the top of the Ligue 1 table and are poised to win another title. He will next be in action against Rennes on Sunday.
Paris Saint-Germain secured a 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, with Kylian Mbappe opening the scoring.
The Ligue 1 champions took control of the match with two second-half goals at Parc Des Princes. Mbappe struck in the 58th minute, followed by Bradley Barcola’s 70th-minute strike, giving PSG an aggregate advantage ahead of the return leg in March.
Sociedad nearly took the lead in the first half when Brais Mendez whipped in a free-kick that tested the PSG defence, and Andre Silva missed a close-range opportunity.
Despite Alex Remiro denying Mbappe, Sociedad had another chance with a double effort from Takefusa Kubo. The Japanese international’s powerful strike from the right side of the box missed the target.
After the break, Sociedad continued to threaten, with Mendez hitting the crossbar with a powerful strike from range.
However, PSG capitalized on their chances, with Mbappe scoring from close range just before the hour mark, assisted by Marquinhos from a Dembele corner.
Mbappe nearly added another goal, but his shot narrowly missed the right post. However, PSG secured their victory in the 69th minute when Barcola finished neatly after a skillful through ball from Fabian Ruiz.
The win gives PSG a comfortable lead heading into the second leg of the tie.
🎥 Highlights of the Parisian victory 🆚 Real Sociedad! (2-0)
Kylian Mbappé has informed Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) of his intention to depart from the club once his contract expires this summer, sources have disclosed to ESPN, signalling a potential move to Real Madrid.
Reports from ESPN on February 3 revealed Mbappé’s decision to make the switch to Madrid this summer, finally putting an end to the Spanish club’s prolonged pursuit of the French international.
However, he had not yet communicated his decision to either club at that time.
Sources within Madrid maintain that Mbappé has yet to respond to the offer reported by ESPN several weeks ago.
Nevertheless, they remain hopeful that Mbappé will provide a response soon, as they believe they have exhausted all efforts to persuade him to join their ranks.
Mbappé, whose admiration for Bernabéu icons Zinedine Zidane and Cristiano Ronaldo runs deep, has long harboured a desire to don the colours of Madrid.
According to a source, he believes that the timing is right in his career to make the move to the Spanish capital.
According to sources briefed by ESPN, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) had devised two potential scenarios for their future strategy: one with Kylian Mbappé remaining at the club, and another without him. With Mbappé now vocalising his decision to leave, the latter scenario is materialising.
Prior to PSG’s 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad in the Champions League, where Mbappé netted the opening goal, head coach Luis Enrique remarked on Tuesday that the forward appeared unfazeddespite his impending departure, maintaining his usual demeanour.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is considering making a move for AC Milan forward Rafael Leão, as reported by Calciomercato.
With Kylian Mbappé likely to leave for Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer, PSG is exploring potential options to bolster their forward line.
Sources informed ESPN that the 24-year-old Leão has emerged as a primary target for PSG, according to Calciomercato.
Although PSG had shown interest in Leão last summer following the departures of Lionel Messi and Neymar, no bid materialised, largely due to Mbappé’s decision to remain with the French club.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gA75cWyBvFg
However, with Mbappé’s situation set to change, PSG could be inclined to pursue Leão once the transfer window opens, though there has been no communication between the two clubs thus far.
Portugal international Leão enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, tallying 16 goals and 15 assists in all competitions. However, he has struggled to replicate that form this season, only scoring three goals in Serie A.
Le Parisien and ESPN reported on Saturday that Kylian Mbappe, the captain of France (25), will join La Liga giants Real Madrid when his contract with Paris St Germain concludes at the end of the season.
Mbappe had declared last year that he would not extend his contract with the Ligue 1 side beyond the 2023–24 campaign, paving the way for a free transfer to another club.
According to sources, the striker is expected to announce a pre-contract agreement with the 14-time European champions next week.
In September 2023, media reports indicated thatMbappe would forgo loyalty bonuses of up to 100 million euros ($107.84 million) to depart PSG as a free agent.
Kylian Mbappe, Vini Jr and Jude Bellingham in the same squad 🤯 🔥
Despite the closure of the transfer window last week, the impending move ofKylian Mbappe (25) to Real Madrid remains a focal point in French football news.
With just six months left on his contract at Paris Saint-Germain, the prolific striker has yet to decide his next destination after the conclusion of his current deal at the end of June, marking his transition to a free agent.
While both ESPN and Le Parisien reported on Saturday, citing undisclosed sources, that Mbappe would join Real Madrid, a source from PSG informed AFP on Sunday that there has been no change in the longstanding deadlock.
He has “not informed the club of any decision,” said the source, despite there being an agreement that PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi will be the first to know when his decision is made.
Mbappe last spoke on the issue in cryptic terms in early January.
“I haven’t made my decision; I haven’t made my choice. But we have an agreement with the president (Al-Khelaifi), which means that all parties are protected,” he told French television.
Kylian Mbappe, the France captain and prolific striker, is yet to make a decision about his next move as his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) approaches its conclusion.
While reports from ESPN and Le Parisien suggest a potential move to Real Madrid, sources within PSG deny any change in the ongoing deadlock. Mbappe, currently earning around 70 million euros annually, is engaged in negotiations with Real Madrid over salary terms.
PSG is striving to retain talented forwards, especially after the departures of Lionel Messi and Neymar.If Mbappe joins Madrid, he will join a lineup featuring Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Vinicius.
Although Mbappe can engage in pre-contract negotiations with any club as his PSG contract nears its final six months, he has opted to postpone such decisions until the conclusion of the Ligue 1 season.
Despite reports in the Spanish media suggesting that the 25-year-old is leaning towards not extending his stay at the club, he has yet to finalise his next destination.
Notably, Mbappe risks forfeiting an €80 million loyalty bonus if he chooses to leave PSG for free, following a settlement agreement reached in the summer amid previous uncertainties about his departure.
Enrique denies speaking to Mbappe Head coach Luis Enrique, speaking during his press conference ahead of tomorrow’s league game against RC Strasbourg, was asked if he knew the news surrounding the player.
“Kylian didn’t tell me anything so far,” he said.
🔴🔵 Luis Enrique on Kylian Mbappé to decide his future soon: “Kylian didn’t tell me anything so far”. pic.twitter.com/0UizJxq3Fj
The ongoing transfer saga involving Mbappe, Real Madrid, and PSG has extended for two years. Despite multiple instances where it seemed the France captain would depart, he chose to stay each time.
However, the speculation is set to come to a conclusion in the upcoming transfer window. Adding to the anticipation, the Spanish giants heightened fan suspense by releasing a 20-second video on their social media channels, hinting at a significant announcement scheduled for tomorrow, February 2, 2024.
Kylian Mbappé has reportedly received contract offers from both Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), as his current contract with PSG expires at the end of the season.
While Real Madrid is seeking a definitive answer from Mbappé to plan for the 2024–25 season, the player remains undecided about his future.
Madrid’s contract offer is said to be lower than previous attempts, but it would still make him the highest earner at the club.
Luis Enrique and Mbappe
The offer is also not significantly more than what other established stars in the squad, such as Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham, earn.
Mbappé currently earns €37 million per season at PSG, and the club has offered the same salary in their new contract proposal.
Liverpool is also reportedly monitoring Mbappé’s contract situation, and while some players at Madrid are optimistic about his potential signing, there is a sense of caution based on past experiences.
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has voiced his frustration over the persistent speculation surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s future, categorising the unwelcome rumours as “lies.”
As the World Cup-winning forward’s contract approaches its expiration, questions surface regarding his commitment to Parc des Princes in the long term.
Despite enduring prolonged interest from Real Madrid, who are reportedly intensifying efforts to secure his signature in 2024, PSG remains undeterred.
The club is fully cognizant of the ongoing gossip but remains steadfast in their determination to extend Mbappe’s contract, choosing to disregard the links to Real Madrid.
PSG is resolute in directing its focus towards the on-field contributions of Mbappe, their all-time leading goalscorer, and is reluctant to engage in discussions about transfer speculation.
Enrique, with his seasoned experience, understands that transfer sagas are inevitable and will always emerge in the world of football.
But he has told Amazon Prime Video Sport France when asked if PSG are becoming a “little tired and angry” at the endless Mbappe stories: “Do you know how many years I have been in the elite of world European football?
Well, five in Madrid and eight in Barcelona as a player. As a coach, I played six at Barcelona, at Roma, and at Celta Vigo. I played for Sporting Gijon. I was born in a locker room in which around it there are always comments from one person, from another, a rumour, a lie, and a lie is made. I’m so used to that, I don’t care.”
Liverpool is also reportedly expressinginterest in Mbappe, and as of now, no final decision has been made regarding his future. There is still a possibility that the prolific 25-year-old forward may choose to stay in the familiar surroundings of his homeland beyond the summer of 2024.
Kylian Mbappé, the forward for Paris Saint-Germain, is expected to make a decision about his club’s future in the coming weeks, according to sources cited by ESPN.
If he chooses to leave PSG, Real Madrid and Liverpool are reportedly the most likely destinations.
Mbappé’s contract with PSG expires in June, and he has chosen not to trigger the one-year extension option, making him free to negotiate with other clubs for a summer move under the Bosman ruling.
Real Madrid, who have been long-time admirers of Mbappé, are considered the frontrunners for his signature.
Despite recent reports suggesting an agreement has been reached, ESPN sources indicate that no formal agreement has been made, and there are ongoing discussions between the player and the club.
Sources also reveal that Mbappé has a strong admiration for Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp. The 25-year-old forward has not ruled out a move to the Premier League.
However, a potential transfer to Liverpool might face challenges due to the club’s financial constraints, making it difficult to afford Mbappé’s current weekly wage of approximately €650,000.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is facing allegations of attempting to sway the outcome of the Ballon d’Or in favour of Lionel Messi.
Le Monde reports that PSG officials tried to influence Pascal Ferre, the former editor-in-chief of France Football and Ballon d’Or organiser, by offering various favours.
The club is accused of seeking Ferre’s support with the aim of securing the Ballon d’Or for Messi during his tenure in Paris. The investigation is said to be centred around Jean-Martial Ribes, the former director of communications at PSG, according to Le Monde.
A report by the General Inspectorate of the National Police from November 2023 says: “Ribes requested to obtain tickets for PSG football matches by journalists, politicians, elected officials, members of ministerial cabinets or the presidency, artists.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1r2TnbVINPs
Despite any attempts by PSG to influence Ballon d’Or officials, Lionel Messi did not secure the coveted trophy during his time at the club.
Messi, now with Inter Miami in MLS, clinched the Ballon d’Or for his exceptional 2022-23 season, notably leading Argentina to victory in the World Cup in Qatar.
The investigation into PSG’s alleged actions is ongoing. Meanwhile, PSG is set to resume action in the French Cup round of 64 on Sunday.
Kylian Mbappe has acknowledged the existence of a transfer “agreement” at Paris Saint-Germain, yet clubs such as Real Madrid and Liverpool are eagerly awaiting his decision. The World Cup-winning French international is now in the final six months of his contract with Parc des Princes.
This grants him the freedom to engage in discussions with clubs beyond Ligue 1, with no extension clause activated thus far.
Real Madrid and Liverpool have both been linked to the 25-year-old prolific forward, PSG’s all-time leading goalscorer. Despite being in the final months of his contract, Mbappe, who previously waited until the last moment to sign his latest deal in 2022, has yet to provide clarity on his future plans. This leaves fans and the football community in suspense, with speculation surrounding his potential move intensifying.
Mbappe said after helping PSG to Trophee des Champions glory in a 2-0 victory over Toulouse: “I haven’t made my decision. I didn’t make a choice. But in any case, with the agreement I made with the president this summer, whatever my decision, we managed to protect all the parties.
“And to preserve the serenity of the club for the challenges to come. Which is the most important? When will I decide? I do not know. In 2022, I waited because I didn’t know until May.
“If I know what I’m going to do, I’m not going to hang around. That does not make any sense. But, like I said, the most important thing is to win trophies. The team and the group are looking towards that. My situation, no one talks about it within the club. I just want to help win trophies, like I did today.”
Pressed further on whether being used as a roaming central striker rather than a wide forward will influence his decision to stay at PSG, Mbappe added, “My position? When I speak with Luis Enrique, he tells me that a good player can play in several positions. I think
I’m a good player. Today, I play in the centre. But no matter what position we play, it adapts according to the qualities of the player. Which means that we are not disoriented. I would have no problem performing. Does this freedom on the pitch encourage me to stay at PSG? What is the relationship between the two things? I have always been important. It is a continuation of the evolution that I have had since my arrival in Paris.”
Paris St-Germain secured a spot in the Champions League knockout phase with a crucial draw against Borussia Dortmund, thanks to a goal from 17-year-old Warren Zaire-Emery.
Despite Dortmund taking the lead with Karim Adeyemi’s goal, Zaire-Emery’s equalizer proved to be enough for the French champions to advance to the last 16.
The draw became even more significant as AC Milan fought back to win against Newcastle, solidifying PSG’s place in the next round. Dortmund finished at the top of Group F with 11 points, while PSG secured eight points to join them in the upcoming draw.
For PSG, the Champions League has been a longstanding target, symbolizing their transformation under Qatari ownership. This result marks their 12th consecutive season reaching the knockout stages, emphasizing their consistent presence at the highest level of European competition.
Despite missing key players Neymar and Lionel Messi this season, PSG relied on Kylian Mbappe to make decisive contributions. Mbappe’s dynamic play created opportunities, including an equalizing goal from Zaire-Emery. The 17-year-old’s strike, coupled with news of Milan’s comeback, ensured PSG’s progression and kept their Champions League aspirations alive.
Although Dortmund and PSG had chances in an entertaining first half, the breakthrough came early in the second half when Adeyemi capitalized on a pass from Niclas Fullkrug to put Dortmund ahead. However, Mbappe’s brilliance and Zaire-Emery’s goal secured the draw, ensuring PSG’s advancement.
Mbappe had another goal disallowed for offside, and as both teams learned of the favorable results elsewhere, the match ended in a draw that suited both Dortmund and PSG.
Controversy surrounds Al-Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo in Japan as the governor of Nagasaki, Kengo Oishi, allegedly used government funds to attend Ronaldo’s friendly against PSG in Osaka in July.
The match was played in Osaka, 732.1 kilometres from the Island off the coast of Japan by road. Oishi claims he purchased the ticket with his own money, but travel accommodations and travel funds came out of the government’s pocket.
Adding to the issue, the governor skipped an official meeting to attend the match, prompting demands for his resignation.
Oishi asserts the purpose was to discuss a potential role for Ronaldo in a future publicity event, but some officials dispute any existing deal with the Portuguese forward.
The incident has sparked a debate over Oishi’s intentions, with supporters arguing he acted in good faith for the city’s benefit.
The friendly ended in a 0-0 draw, and Al-Nassr’s next matches are scheduled for December 22 and 26.
Ronaldo, on the other hand, enjoys an 11-day break until his next game.
Kylian Mbappe’s future is not solely dependent on PSG’s Champions League performance, but a “last opportunity” to join Real Madrid is imminent.
As the Ligue 1 title holders face the risk of missing the last-16 in the continental competition, speculations arose that a potential slip into the Europa League might prompt Mbappe to seek a move elsewhere, especially since he hasn’t activated a contract extension beyond the summer of 2024.
Contrary to such claims, L’Equipe suggests that Mbappe will carefully weigh various factors before determining his immediate and long-term future.
The World Cup-winning French international’s decision is not guaranteed to be influenced by PSG’s Champions League fate.
Despite the uncertainty, PSG remains hopeful that Mbappe can be persuaded to sign a new contract.
While he hasn’t exercised an extension option, negotiations are underway for a completely new and substantially longer contract, contrasting the two-year agreement reached in May 2022.
While there’s a possibility that Mbappe may choose to stay in Paris, he is cognizant that Real Madrid continues to monitor his situation.
Opting for a new contract in Paris would put an end to Real Madrid’s pursuit of his signature, leaving the 24-year-old with a significant choice between pursuing more silverware in his homeland or venturing into Spanish football.
Eddie Howe asserted that Newcastle must adopt a mindset of being up against the odds, particularly in the wake of an unfortunate VAR decision against Paris Saint-Germain.
In a determined tone during his pre-match press conference, Howe criticised the perceived injustice of a VAR call penalising Tino Livramento for handball when a cross from Ousmane Dembele made contact with his elbow via his torso.
The subsequent penalty, dispatched by Kylian Mbappe, resulted in an equalizer for PSG.
Looking ahead to their Premier League encounter against Manchester United at St James’ Park on Saturday, Howe issued a rallying cry to both the Newcastle players and fans.
The manager emphasised the need for resilience in the face of adversity, framing the situation as a collective challenge that requires unity and determination from the entire team and its supporters.
Howe said: “We have to try and use it as motivation. I don’t know if that feeling has to be injustice, but if that helps certain players reach their full potential for this game, I’m all for that. I always want the sense that we are against everybody outside of Newcastle.
“That helps us. It’s a good mentality to have, that we are competing against everybody else. It has certainly served us well to this point so if it helps the players, great. I don’t think I had to develop [that attitude] strategically. I think it has happened [naturally].”
In the aftermath of their Champions League misfortune, Eddie Howe has once again endeavoured to rally his team and its supporters, urging them to adopt a siege mentality.
It is important to acknowledge that, despite their recent challenges, Howe’s side has experienced favourable refereeing decisions in the Premier League this season, notably against Wolves and Arsenal.
Looking forward to their upcoming clash against Manchester United, both teams aim to put aside the disappointments of midweek Champions League encounters.
Newcastle, currently one point behind their opponents, aspires for a performance reminiscent of their earlier 3-0victory at Old Trafford in the Carabao Cup.
The match holds the promise of an intense battle as both sides seek to rebound from recent setbacks and secure a positive result in the Premier League.
VAR official Tomasz Kwiatkowski, who suggested a contentious penalty review during Paris St-Germain’s Champions League match against Newcastle United, will not be included in the officiating team for Wednesday’s game between Real Sociedad and Salzburg.
In the 1-1 draw on Tuesday, PSG players contested a handball as the ball rebounded off Newcastle defender Tino Livramento’s chest and onto his elbow.
Referee Szymon Marciniak, urged by the VAR, checked the pitchside monitor.
BREAKING: The VAR who controversially reviewed the late penalty awarded to PSG against Newcastle has been replaced for a game tonight, Sky Sports News understands. pic.twitter.com/nEb4EOqVZl
Despite rejecting a more plausible penalty earlier, Marciniak awarded a penalty in the eighth minute of stoppage time, leading to Kylian Mbappe’s goal that secured a draw for PSG.
Tomasz Kwiatkowski will be replaced by Marco Fritz.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe criticised the penalty decision, contending that Livramento’s hand was not in an unnatural position.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)has exercised its option to convert the loan of striker Gonçalo Ramos from Benfica into a permanent deal.
Ramos, who initially joined PSG on a season-long loan in the summer, gained attention with a remarkable World Cup performance last year, contributing a hat trick that propelled Portugal to the quarterfinals.
Paris Saint-Germain are pleased to announce that it has exercised the option to purchase Gonçalo Ramos. The Portuguese striker is now contracted to the club until 2028. pic.twitter.com/kO6Ub9LfOC
Kylian Mbappe has mentioned that he is accustomed to coaches expressing negative comments towards him following criticism from Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique.
Mbappe struck three times as PSG beat Reims in Ligue 1, but coach Luis Enrique said afterwards that he was “not happy” with the forward. “I have nothing to say about the goals, but he can help the team in another way. I will talk about it with him first, but they are private conversations.
Kylian is one of the best players in the world, but we want more,” he said.
At 24 years old, Mbappe leads the scoring charts in Ligue 1, contributing 13 goals out of Paris Saint-Germain’s total of 29 in just 11 matches this season.
Despite ongoing speculation about his future and strong interest from Real Madrid, recent reports suggest that the Spanish club has withdrawn their pursuit of the World Cup winner.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHScxNhKVUo
Mbappe insists his relationship with Luis Enrique is fine, however, telling reporters: “I’ve always worked well with the coaches I’ve had, like Didier Deschamps, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel and so on.
These are coaches who have spoken to me ‘badly’, so to speak, but it didn’t stop me from playing well and having a good relationship with them.
“I’m a player who’s very demanding of himself, so when I find that demand from my coaches, then I’m very happy. I don’t need my manager to tell me I’m the best player in the world every day.”
Asked about the links to Madrid, he said while on international duty: “It’s not something that concerns the French national team,” began the France captain in an evasive manner. “You should come to Campus PSG and I’ll respond; the focus is on the country above anything else for the next week.”
Mbappe will likely be involved when France takes on Gibraltar in Euro 2024 qualifying on Saturday. PSG return to action with a Ligue 1 clash against Monaco on Friday, November 24.
Borussia Dortmund has shown interest in signing 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery, as reported by Calciomercato.
Several European clubs are closely monitoring the young talent, who has already featured in nine of PSG’s ten Ligue 1 matches this season.
Both manager Luis Enrique and sporting director Luis Campos are eager to prioritise contract negotiations with Zaire-Emery in the upcoming weeks, as his current deal is set to enter its final 18 months in January.
Zaire-Emery made his professional debut for PSG in August 2022, earning the distinction of becoming the club’s youngest-ever player. His role has expanded this season as he shines in Luis Enrique’s revamped setup in the French capital.
South Korea coach Jurgen Klinsmann has called on Lee Kang-in (22) to keep his feet on the ground as the Paris Saint-Germain playmaker continues his emergence as the country’s next great hope.
Lee was given a rousing reception when he scored twice for the Koreans in a 4-0 friendly win over Tunisia in Seoul on Friday, as he capped a month that also saw him help his country retain the gold medal at the Asian Games in China.
“It’s just a joy to work with him because he’s always in a good mood; he’s always smiling, but he’s also hungry,” Klinsmann said.
“This is what he needs to be. It’s not easy for Kang-in to stay hungry because here he’s getting treated like a pop star, which is not good because a pop star doesn’t score goals.
“He has to stay humble. He has to stay focused. He has to work hard and fight.”
Lee, who made a significant move to Spain to join Valencia’s academy as a young talent, has consistently been recognised as one of South Korea’s most promising prospects. He amassed 62 appearances for the La Liga team before transferring to Real Mallorca in 2021.
Notably, Lee participated in the World Cup finals last year, featuring in four matches, with three of them as substitutes. During the summer, he secured a 22 million-euro deal with Paris Saint-Germain.
Lee’s pivotal role in South Korea’s recent gold medal win at the Asian Games holds immense significance for his European career progression. This victory has also granted him an exemption from the mandatory military service in his home country.
“Every time he will come back to Korea, there will be I don’t know, how many people screaming for him,” Klinsmann said.
“When a club like Paris Saint-Germain takes a player from Korea, it means that it’s a very special player. Kang-in is hugely talented.
“He will now start to learn from top players in Paris what it means to play in the Champions League and also what it means to play under the pressure of winning titles.”
After an 11-year stint with the club, the midfielder found himself sidelined by the new manager, Luis Enrique.
Consequently, Verratti made a transfer to the Qatari team Al Arabi in September for approximately €45 million.
“Upon my return for preseason, I had an interview with the coach and he told me I wasn’t part of his plans,” Verratti said. “He is a very good manager. He is doing good things with PSG. I didn’t see it as a personal decision. I have never had enemies in my life. I prefer things to be clear.”
The Italy international wasn’t told why, though.
“He [Luis Enrique] wanted change,” he added. “I had spent many years here and he wanted something new. Things don’t happen by chance for me. The club wanted me to look elsewhere so I started to talk with other teams, and I chose Qatar.
“I think in football there are never ‘good’ reasons. Everyone has their vision of how to play. I think thatLuis Enrique needed other players. I have nothing against him. We have a very good relationship. I trained to the max every day, and he couldn’t say anything bad about me. Sometimes there are changes, and that’s good too.”
France manager Didier Deschamps has been cautious in expressing his true sentiments aboutKylian Mbappe’s chances of winning the 2023 Ballon d’Or, according to Christophe Dugarry, a fellow French World Cup winner.
Deschamps has stated his belief that the Paris Saint-Germain striker is deserving of the award, even though Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland are considered the frontrunners after their exceptional 2022–23 seasons.
However, Dugarry has suggested that Deschamps might hold reservations about Mbappe’s prospects but refrain from sharing his true thoughts to avoid “offending” his star player.
“It makes me laugh. You feel like it’s a ball of hypocrites. Journalists ask the question and you don’t know if they really mean it,” he told RMC Sport. “We ask Deschamps the question but I’m sure he doesn’t give a damn. He (Mbappé) is not scoring at the moment; he is not playing very well, but (Deschamps) is afraid of offending him so he is obliged to make a response.
“Don’t make a connection with me and don’t ‘fry’ me with Deschamps. I’m talking about all those who give their opinion, friends of friends, and those who have an interest. There’s no real honesty in any of this. The Ballon d’Or, we don’t care; it doesn’t interest anyone.”
Dugarry also shared his view that both Haaland and Messi would be rightful contenders for the Ballon d’Or ahead of Mbappe. Messi played a pivotal role in Argentina’s victory in the 2022 World Cup, and Haaland achieved a treble in his debut season at Manchester City.
In contrast, Mbappe’s accomplishments were limited to securing the Ligue 1 title with PSG, as the team once again fell short in the Champions League.
“Today, to put my foot down, I would not give it to Mbappe, as strong as he is,” he added. “I would give it to someone who has won titles; it would be either Messi or Haaland.” The striker is due to return to action on Friday when France takes on the Netherlands in Euro 2024 qualifying.
Real Madrid board member Jose Manuel Otero Lastre says it seems like Kylian Mbappe was destined to wear the club’s jersey.
Mbappe, aged 24, is set to become a free agent in 2024 and the possibility of him joining Madrid without a transfer fee is high.
Although there are negotiations ongoing for a new contract in Paris, this is happening despite his disagreements with the club over the summer and being listed for a transfer.
“Mbappe had and did not have the opportunity to sign for Real Madrid this summer,” Otero Lastre told the Remontada Blanca Twitch channel. “To come, he would have had to give up some very high bonuses that he had already agreed with Paris Saint-Germain. Plus, there was a [transfer] fee to pay.
“The amount that would have had to be paid to have signed Mbappe a year earlier was crazy. It didn’t make sense to sign Mbappe a year earlier, even though Madrid were broken in [Karim] Benzema’s position.
“We hope that Mbappe has the same thoughts as [Jude] Bellingham. I trust that he will come. Mbappe will achieve glory when he comes to Real Madrid. He will win a Champions League someday.
“Now, it seems like PSG is less powerful than before because they no longer have such good players. Madrid guarantees security, a seriousness that brings results. I trust he will say yes when he is a free agent.Mbappe was bornto play for Real Madrid.”
Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has imposed one-match suspensions onParis Saint-Germain (PSG) players Randal Kolo Muani, Ousmane Dembele, Achraf Hakimi, and Layvin Kurzawa for their involvement in anti-gay chants.
This disciplinary action comes in response to an incident that occurred during last month’s Ligue 1 match between PSG and Marseille at the Parc des Princes.
During the match, PSG fans engaged in anti-gay chants directed at Marseille, and there were reports suggesting PSG players also participated in these chants.
As a result, Ligue 1 has decided to suspend the mentioned players starting on October 10.
Furthermore, Ligue 1 has taken the additional step of closing the Auteuil stand at the Parc des Princes for two matches, one of which is suspended, in response to this unacceptable behaviour.
“The Club regrets that the Disciplinary Commission has opted for an excessive and collective measure, likely to undermine the work of dialogue and prevention undertaken by the Club with associations, institutions and fans,” PSG said in a statement, adding that they will not appeal.
Luis Enrique reportedly raised concerns about Marco Verratti’s lifestyle, leading to the decision to exclude the Italian midfielder from the Paris Saint-Germain squad.
During the summer, both PSG’s manager and sporting director, Luis Campos, reportedly conveyed to Verratti that he was not part of their future plans and was welcome to seek a transfer from the club.
“Though Luis Enrique liked the Italian midfielder’s playing style, it was his lifestyle that the manager was not particularly a fan of. Luis Enrique had even told the player “You are the prototype of the player I hate”, according to Le Parisien.
Following his exclusion from the PSG squad, Verratti has made the decision to depart the club after 11 years, making his way to Qatar to join Al-Arabi.
It has been reported that the Ligue 1 champions received a fee of €45 million from the Qatari club for the midfielder.
FourParis Saint-Germain players may face disciplinary action for reportedly engaging in an offensive chant directed at Marseille fans following their Classique victory on Sunday.
Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani, Achraf Hakimi, and Layvin Kurzawa are alleged to have shouted derogatory remarks while celebrating their 4-0 win, saying, “Marseillais, go f*ck your mothers.”
A video shared on social media by Free Ligue 1 shows the four players chanting and jumping, while the rest of the PSG squad abstained from joining in.
In addition, PSG fans could also be subject to sanctions for alleged homophobic chants directed at the visiting team during the match.
According to L’Equipe, this offensive song persisted for nearly 15 minutes and falls within the French Football Association’s definition of discriminatory behaviour.
Olivier Klein, the inter-ministerial delegate for the fight against racism, anti-Semitism, and anti-LGBT hatred (DILCRAH), criticised both PSG and the FA for these incidents.
In a social media post, Klein said he was “very shocked by the unbearable homophobic chants heard at the Parc des Princes during [the game]”.
The government official said he will enter into discussions with the club and the French FA and plans to take legal action if possible.
The minister of sports and the Olympics, Amelie Oudea-Castea, later revealed that she has coordinated France’s discriminatory commission, who are expected to open an investigation into the chants.
PSG released a statement in response, pledging to “step up its prevention work in the fight against homophobia, and will be meeting all its partners on this vital issue in the coming days”.
Al-Khelaifi has refuted such claims that Messi’s achievements were not congratulated upon his return, stating how it was always going to be tricky given Argentina had just beaten France so narrowly in the final.
“As everyone saw, because we even published a video, we celebrated Messi in training, and we also celebrated him in private,” he recently told RMC Sport. “But with respect, we are a French club. It was, of course, sensitive to celebrate at the stadium. We must respect the country he defeated, his teammates on the France team, and our supporters too.”
Given the warm reception he received upon his summer transfer to the United States, it’s improbable that the global superstar will be significantly troubled by this matter.
While Messi did receive a guard of honour upon his return to training, the Inter Miami forward appears to harbour some dissatisfaction. As a result, he concluded his two-year tenure with the club and made the move to MLS this summer.
Given the warm reception he received upon his summer transfer to the United States, it’s improbable that the global superstar will be significantly troubled by this matter.
This young player made his first appearance for the Ligue 1 champions in December 2022, while he was still just 15 years old.
He featured in a friendly match against Paris FC at that time and was also part of PSG’s pre-season preparations for the 2023–24 season, playing in a 3-0 victory against Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors during the club’s Asia tour.
Ethan and Mbappe
Now, Mbappe junior has been named in a Ligue 1 matchday squad as PSG prepares to face Nice at Parc des Princes on Friday.
He will be hoping for the opportunity to take the field if the circumstances allow during the match.
Ethan Mbappe joined PSG alongside his World Cup-winning brother in 2017, moving from AS Bondy.
In the summer of 2021, he signed a three-year contract with the club, and later that year, he made his debut for the France U21 national team.
He is, however, still inFrance and Ethan has previously said of working with his sibling: “A huge pride to be able to play with you, big brother.”
Real Madrid is not assuming that they will secure the signing of PSG’s forward, Kylian Mbappe, next summer, and they are exploring potential alternatives in case their pursuit of the French international falls through.
Mbappe has been embroiled in a dispute with PSG throughout much of the summer after he declined to activate an option in his contract that would have extended his deal until 2025.
Consequently, he is set to become a free agent next summer, leading PSG to temporarily exclude him from their first-team plans before reintegrating him back into the squad in mid-August.
Although the situation remains uncertain, relations have improved, and there is now a chance of Mbappe signing a new contract with PSG.
Real Madrid is aware of this situation and is prepared for the possibility that the 24-year-old may opt for a fresh deal with Parc des Princes. According to Fichajes, Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez is being considered as an alternative if Mbappe decides not to join Real Madrid.
The Spanish source suggests that doubts have arisen about Alvarez’s desire to remain with Pep Guardiola’s team due to the prospect of playing a secondary role behind Erling Haaland.
Although the 23-year-old has delivered strong performances, his role as a substitute has been prominent despite making 55 appearances in all competitions since joining the club in the summer of 2022.
With a contract in place until 2028, acquiring Alvarez is expected to be a challenging task for Los Blancos. The player has not expressed any discontent with his current situation, and Manchester City has shown no inclination to sell one of the top backup players in the world of football.
Alvarez boasts an Expected Transfer Value (xTV) of €40 million, which is likely the minimum amount Real Madrid would need to offer to secure the services of a player who would likely command a higher valuation if he had more playing time.
Dutch international Georginio Wijnaldum has completed a permanent transfer to Al-Ettifaq FC in Saudi Arabia.
Wijnaldum began his professional career with Feyenoord Rotterdam, where he played for five seasons. He then moved to PSV Eindhoven in 2011, remaining there until 2015.
The midfielder ventured into English football, initially joining Newcastle United for the 2015–2016 season before making a notable move to Liverpool.
During his time at Liverpool, Wijnaldum made 237 appearances, achieving significant milestones such as winning the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020.
Following his participation in the 2014 FIFA World Cup with the Netherlands, Wijnaldum signed with Paris Saint-Germain in June 2021. He went on to make 38 appearances for the club, contributing with three goals and assists while also helping PSG secure the Ligue 1 title in 2022.
After a single season with PSG, Wijnaldum was loaned to AS Roma for the 2022–2023 campaign.
The club extends its best wishes to Georginio Wijnaldum in his future endeavors.
Chelsea has reportedly accepted a permanent offer from Galatasaray for the marginalised Moroccan winger, as per reports by RMC Sport and Fabrizio Romano. However, both parties remain cautiously optimistic at this stage.
This hesitation is due to two previously unsuccessful attempts to secure moves for Ziyech earlier this year.
In January, a potential loan transfer to Paris Saint-Germain collapsed due to Chelsea’s failure to submit the correct documentation within the stipulated timeframe.
During the current summer, the 30-year-old’s anticipated move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, reportedly fell through due to his inability to pass a medical examination due to a knee injury.
Ziyech made his way to Chelsea in a transfer worth £33 million ($43 million) from Ajax in 2020, yet he has not truly found his footing at Stamford Bridge.
Should Ziyech successfully clear his medical examination at Galatasaray, he will join the likes of Dries Mertens, Wilfried Zaha, and Mauro Icardi in Istanbul.
Kylian Mbappe has received a cautionary message: in case the French striker prolongs his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Real Madrid is prepared to redirect their attention towards Erling Haaland.
Following productive discussions between the French forward and PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, Mbappe has been reinstated to the first team.
Nevertheless, reports indicate that there have been no talks about an extension, and Mbappe seems willing to forgo his loyalty bonus in order to leave on a free transfer next summer.
While PSG is eager for Mbappe to renew his contract to avoid a free departure, it appears that a final agreement is distant at the moment.
However, if Mbappe’s decision takes a different direction, Real Madrid icon Guti has issued a warning: Los Blancos will pivot away from their pursuit of Mbappe and instead redirect their focus towards Erling Haaland, the star of Manchester City.
“I want Mbappe to play for Real Madrid. Real cannot afford the luxury of closing the door to such a player,” Guti told El Chiringuito.
“But if Mbappe extends his contract with PSG, it will show that he is acting for the money. If that happens, Real Madrid will have to opt for Erling Haaland.”
Since the departure of Karim Benzema, Real Madrid has yet to secure the services of a top-tier striker, leaving their No. 9 jersey unoccupied.
Although Carlo Ancelotti has considered the possibility of proceeding through the 2023–24 season without acquiring a new No. 9, this stance might shift if the team encounters difficulty finding the net without a prominent forward.
Real Madrid is set to return to the field on Saturday for a La Liga encounter against Almeria.
Following a six-year tenure at PSG, Neymar departs, leaving behind an impressive record of 13 trophies won and 118 goals scored in 173 matches.
His accomplishments have solidified his place as the fourth-highest scorer in the club’s history.
At the age of 31, Neymar joins the ranks of prominent stars who have transitioned to the Saudi Pro League, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr being a notable example.
As reported by talkSPORT, the Brazilian international is poised to receive a substantial salary at his new club, with estimates suggesting he could earn approximately £138 million per season.
“It is always difficult to say goodbye to an amazing player like Neymar, one of the best players in the world, he said, as quoted by the club’s official website.
“I will never forget the day he arrived at Paris Saint-Germain and what he has contributed to our Club and our project over the last 6 years. We had a great moment, and Neymar will always be a big part of our history.
“I would like to thank Neymar and his family. We wish Neymar all the very best for the future and his next adventure.”
He will link up with Ruben Neves, former Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, and compatriot Malcom at the Riyadh-based club.
Why Neymar moved to Al-Hilal
Sports Brief also reported on Neymar explaining the reason behind his unconventional yet courageous decision to switch from the European football scene to the riches ofSaudi Arabia.
The Brazilian clarified that his move to the Middle East was driven by his ambition to transform into a ‘worldwide player,’ placing greater emphasis on personal development than financial gains.
Furthermore, he emphasised his eagerness for ‘new challenges and promising opportunities in diverse settings’ as an added incentive influencing his decision.
In the wake of Neymar’s departure from the club after a six-season stint in the French capital, his former teammate Marco Verratti penned a touching message.
Verratti conveyed his emotions sincerely as he bid farewell to Neymar, who recently moved to Al-Hilal.
The pair had spent six years together at the club.
“Just to tell you that it was amazing to spend all those years together. I love you very much, and I wish you the best for the new stage of your life. You are a special person, my friend,” the Italian wrote on Instagram.
The 31-year-old joined PSG before the 2017/18 season and spent six seasons at the Parisian club.
He made over 173 appearances but failed to win the Champions League, reaching the final once.
On Tuesday, Paris St-Germain’s Senegalese defender, Abdou Diallo (27), completed a move to Qatari team Al Arabi, according to an announcement by the Ligue 1 club.
While the exact details of the agreement were not revealed, sources from French media indicated that Diallo has committed to a four-year contract with Al Arabi following the completion of a transfer worth 15 million euros.
“I’ll always be a Parisian and grateful to have worn this shirt,” said the centre-back, who won two Ligue 1 titles, two French Cups, and a League Cup with the capital club. Diallo came through the youth ranks at AS Monaco and made his debut in 2014 before winning Ligue 1 in 2017.
📝 𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗟 𝗗𝗢𝗡𝗘: Abdou Diallo has left PSG and joined Qatari side Al Arabi SC. 🇶🇦💸🇸🇳
He is officially the most expensive player in Qatar's football history.
After participating in 75 matches across various competitions for PSG following his transfer from Borussia Dortmund in 2019, where he had previously spent a season with Bundesliga side Mainz 05, Abdou Diallo has now joined the Qatar Stars League with Al Arabi.
The player, who was born in France, spent the previous season on loan at RB Leipzig, making 15 appearances and netting a goal. His contribution also played a role in RB Leipzig’s victory in the German Cup.
Diallo, once the captain of France’s under-21 team, has earned 23 caps for Senegal. He played a pivotal role in Senegal’s triumph at the 2021 African Cup of Nations and was also part of the squad that competed in the previous year’s World Cup.
According to reports, Neymar will acquire a private jet along with a mansion equipped with staff.
He stands to earn a substantial winning bonus of €80,000 and an additional €500,000 for each social media post or story that promotes Saudi Arabia.
Although the official announcement of his transfer is pending, Neymar has completed the move to Al Hilal.
His lucrative two-year deal will see him pocket an eye-watering €2.9 million per week.
Breaking down the staggering figures, Neymar’s earnings translate to €4.80 every second, €288 per minute, €17,280 per hour, €414,720 per day, and a jaw-dropping €2.9 million weekly.
His monthly income reaches €12 million, annually totaling €150 million, and over the span of two seasons, he is set to amass a staggering €300 million.
According to respected football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Neymar is expected to arrive in Saudi Arabia this week and will wear the number 10 jersey.
His remarkable professional career encompassed 497 appearances, where he netted 294 goals and contributed 190 assists, securing a remarkable tally of 21 titles.
The Frenchman doesn’t just have two elite clubs dancing to his own tune – he also has an incredible level of control over the entire transfer market
Unlike nearly everyone else connected with Paris Saint-Germain, Kylian Mbappe was in good spirits during Saturday’s Ligue 1 clash with Lorient.
While those seated around him at Parc des Princes were bitterly frustrated watching the champions try – and fail – to break down the team that finished 10th last season, Mbappe was spotted several times laughing and joking with new PSG signing Ousmane Dembele. And why not? The game did nothing other than prove just how important he is to PSG.
The day before, Luis Enrique had stated that he was still hoping to see an amicable resolution to Mbappe’s contract stand-off with Nasser Al-Khelaifi & Co., but the new coach pointedly added: “The philosophy of this club is very clear: that the club is above everything, and I share it 100 percent.”
Undoubtedly admirable and heartfelt sentiments on the part of Luis Enrique – but simply not applicable in this case.
The events of the last few days have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that Kylian Mbappe is bigger than Paris Saint-Germain. Right now, in fact, he’s probably the most powerful player in the world.
Acutely aware of his own worth The morning after being given what must have felt like a terrifying glimpse of a future without Mbappe, PSG announced that the France captain had been welcomed back into the fold with open arms.
To casual observers, that would have looked like a remarkable turn of events. PSG, remember, had seemingly stood up to Mbappe at long last. When a letter confirming his intention to leave the club in 2024 was mysteriously – and conveniently – leaked to the press, Al-Khelaifi insisted that Mbappe would have to find himself a new club before the close of the transfer window. PSG understandably had no intention of losing the world’s most valuable player on a free transfer next summer.
Things turned so toxic that PSG rather pettily took down Mbappe posters in and around their stadium, stopped selling his shirt in the club shop, while also resorting to the mother of all guilt trips by claiming that if Mbappe left for nothing, it would result in a “wave of redundancies”.
They even accepted an offer from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal for Mbappe, in an attempt to force his hand. Mbappe, though, refused to even discuss the transfer. Why? Because he can.
He’s the man in demand, the player holding all the aces here – and he knows it. This is a young, generational talent who is acutely aware of his own worth, particularly to PSG.
mbappe Al Khelaifi(C)Getty Images
‘Cornerstrone of the club’s project’ Al-Khelaifi made Mbappe “the cornerstone of the club’s project” last year for a reason. They are utterly dependent upon him, and not from a sporting perspective. His goals can be replaced.
As former sporting director Leonardo pointed out, Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Chelsea have all won the Champions League since Mbappe joined PSG – so it is possible to win the trophy without him.
But PSG’s superstar-obsessed owners clearly do not believe that is possible for a club with no competition in France to maintain relevance on the global stage without a player of Mbappe’s stature – one that is immensely popular with young fans from every background – and certainly not at this moment in time.
With Lionel Messi and Neymar having left this summer, Mbappe is their one remaining icon – and the one most important to their brand. They could build a better, more cohesive and functioning team with the money made from selling Mbappe, one capable of finally realising their dream of conquering Europe, but without the World Cup winner, they would just not be as attractive a proposition in terms of marketing and commercial opportunities, or even just in terms of attracting social media followers.
Mbappe and his team know all that, which is why they could afford to simply sit tight and call PSG’s bluff.
Making Madrid wait too Because it’s not as if Real Madrid are going anywhere. Mbappe led Florentino Perez down the garden path last summer, and yet the Spaniard still clearly wants to sign him. He is even prepared to wait until next year to do so.
Kylian Mbappe
Again, though, Mbappe will decide if or when he moves to Madrid. He may yet sign an extension at PSG, but if he does, it will be once again done on his terms. Indeed, do not be surprised if he manages to ‘persuade’ PSG to put a 2024 buy-out clause into the agreement – and for a fee that he knows Madrid will be willing to meet.
In that sense, Mbappe is displaying an element of control over not only his career – but also the transfer market – that we have never seen before.
He has been a little fortunate in that regard. Cristiano Ronaldo had to move to Saudi Arabia because nobody wanted him in Europe anymore. Lionel Messi was forced out of Camp Nou on account of Barcelona’s financial problems.
Mbappe, though, is in a position to do as he pleases, and while he decides what’s best for him, several other players are stuck in the departures lounge. If Mbappe stays at PSG, Madrid will simply have to sign a goalscorer this summer. And PSG, of course, would need to sign a replacement if he were to leave.
Either way, Mbappe is the potential catalyst for a chain reaction that would see a succession of forwards switch clubs.
Spineless PSG panic under the pressure Not that he’ll care about that, of course. For now, his sole focus will be on seeing what else PSG are willing to offer him to sign a contract extension.
They bent over backwards for him last summer, while this time around they have replaced Neymar, with whom Mbappe fell out, with his France team-mate and good friend Dembele.
Carlo Ancelotti was frustrated but confident after Real Madrid lost to Barcelona
More Mbappe-approved moves yet be made at the Parc des Princes.
Of course, the club have tried to make out that a relationship that appeared broken has now been mended thanks to “very constructive, positive talks” between the two parties led to the player being “reinstat ed into first-team training” on Sunday morning. In truth, though, a desperate and spineless PSG panicked under the pressure and decided to give Mbappe everything he wanted once again.
In the era of player power, not one has more than Kylian Mbappe.
DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana
Neymar Dos Santos Jr., the Brazilian superstar, is on the brink of ending his five-year tenure atParis Saint Germain (PSG) with an impending move to Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal.
As per a report from Brazilian outlet Globosport, Kylian Mbappe, the French international and World Cup champion, orchestrated a clever strategy to prompt PSG to put Neymar on the transfer market.
Allegedly, he engaged social media figures, including John Honesty (@ExJohnHoonestyy), to propagate his desire to depart the club.
The report suggests that Mbappe’s objective was to aid in Neymar’s departure from the club and have Dembele take his place.
After spending much of his summer training in isolation due to his refusal to extend his contract, Mbappe returned to full training shortly after the club announced the acquisition ofOusmane Dembele from Barcelona.
John Honesty’s account has been deactivated as Neymar’s move to Al Hilal appears to be nearing completion, and Mbappe resumed training after expressing his willingness to discuss a contract extension following Dembele’s signing.
Meanwhile, Neymar is a step away from finalising his transfer to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
During the pre-season, Paris Saint-Germain excluded Mbappe from their squad preparations after contract extension negotiations hit a snag.
French media reports indicated that PSG suspected the 24-year-old had reached an agreement to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.
Mbappe inked a three-year contract with PSG in the 2022 summer transfer window. The deal consists of an initial two-year term with an option for an additional year, as reported by Sky Sports.
Initially set to initiate discussions with other clubs in January 2024, after PSG failed to activate the contract extension clause, the breakdown of talks resulted in his absence fromPSG’s opening match against Lorient. However, his return suggests that he is on the verge of extending his contract.
The ongoing transfer window has been marked by speculation about Mbappe’s future, but it seems that the 24-year-old forward will ultimately remain with PSG.
A contract offer has been presented, indicating that he will stay for now but is set to depart in 2024 for a fee.
Back in June, Mbappe informed PSG of his decision not to extend his existing contract, which is due to expire next summer.
In order to avoid losing him without compensation, PSG accepted a substantial offer of around £259 million ($328.4 million) fromSaudi club Al-Hilal.
However, when Mbappe turned down the move, PSG left him out of their pre-season preparations.
Following productive discussions with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, Mbappe appears to be on the verge of agreeing to a one-year extension until 2025.
This agreement includes a provision that guarantees his availability for transfer in 2024.
This arrangement benefits both parties – PSG will secure a transfer fee, while Mbappe will have the opportunity to pursue his desire to move on.
There is strong speculation that Mbappe aims to join Real Madrid next summer, especially considering that the Spanish club has yet to find a replacement for Karim Benzema.
Consequently, it’s likely that they will make a move for Mbappe in the upcoming year. Nevertheless, it seems that the prospect of a free transfer is no longer on the table.
Kylian Mbappé, Neymar, and Marco Verratti were conspicuously absent from the Paris Saint-Germain lineup during their season-opening match against Lorient on Saturday, resulting in a goalless draw at Parc des Princes.
The uncertainty surrounding the trio’s future with the club has prompted their omission.
The relationship between Mbappé and the Ligue 1 champions has been strained, particularly since the forward declared his intention not to extend his contract, which concludes at the close of the 2023–24 season.
Notably, the French international was also excluded from PSG’s preseason tour last month.
Kylian Mbappe
Mbappé is just one of several players who have been rumoured to be departing Parc des Princes during the ongoing transfer window, set to conclude on September 1.
Media reports in France have indicated that Neymar, the club’s record signing, and midfielder Verratti are also deemed surplus to requirements by the club.
Reports suggest that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has accepted a substantial offer forNeymar from Al-Hilal, a team in the Saudi Pro League.
The Brazilian player has apparently expressed his desire to leave PSG this summer, although the French club might hold out for a minimum of €150 million (£130 million or $165 million).
According to Fabrizio Romano, renowned for transfer news, Al-Hilal made a sizable offer for the 31-year-old on Saturday, which has now been acknowledged by RMC Sport.
Despite ongoing advanced negotiations between Neymar’s representatives and the club, Neymar himself has not yet given his approval for the deal.
If Neymar departs PSG during this summer window, it would mark the conclusion of his six-year stint in Paris, where he has recorded 118 goals in 173 appearances.
This development coincides with a somewhat unsettled period for the Ligue 1 champions, as evidenced by Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, and Marco Verratti being excluded from the squad in the 0-0 draw against Lorient.
Interestingly, Al-Hilal had previously presented a €300 million (£259 million or $332 million) bid for Mbappe last month, which was declined as Mbappe displayed no interest in moving there.
PSG’s focus is on selling Mbappe this summer after he declined a contract extension.
Avoiding a free transfer next year is PSG’s goal, but if both Neymar and Mbappe depart, the team’s performance in Ligue 1 and the Champions League could potentially suffer.
Negotiations are ongoing, and it appears increasingly likely that Neymar will not participate in anymore matches for PSG.
Ousmane Dembele’s transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain has been officially confirmed by the French club, as they exercised his €50.4 million (£43 million/$55 million) release clause.
The completion of Dembele’s move was finalised by PSG following the successful completion of the France international’s medical examinations on Friday.
In the early days of August, PSG formally notified Barcelona of their intention to activate a “private” clause embedded within Dembele’s contract.
This clause ensured that his transfer fee would not exceed €50 million, even though the standard release clause was set at €100 million (£86 million or $108 million).
Dembele has committed to a five-year contract that ties him to the Parc des Princes until at least the summer of 2028.
Barcelona originally acquired Dembele from Borussia Dortmund in 2017, but persistent injuries limited his appearances to a mere 23 during the 2017-18 season.
✍️ Ousmane Dembélé has joined Paris Saint-Germain from FC Barcelona. The world champion, who will wear the number 23, has signed for 5 seasons. #WelcomeDembélé
He experienced a resurgence under the management of Xavi during the 2022 season, accumulating 11 goals and 21 assists across his final two seasons at Camp Nou.
Departing Barcelona after 185 matches and 62 goals, Dembele also boasts an impressive record of three league titles, two Copas del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups.
“I’m delighted to be joining Paris Saint-Germain and can’t wait to play for my new club. I hope I can continue to grow here and make all the club’s fans proud,” he stated after signing his new PSG contract.
Dembele has been signed by PSG as they prepare for lifewithout Kylian Mbappe. The Parisians remain adamant about offloading the 2018 World Cup winner, but the player insists on spending the 2023–24 season in Paris before walking away as a free agent next summer.
After a meeting with new manager Luis Enrique prior to the start of the Ligue 1 season,PSG communicated to the 31-year-old forward that he does not feature in their plans for this season.
Neymar’s potential return to his former team, Barcelona, has gained significant attention, as the club has reached a comprehensive agreement to bring back their former player. The expected deal entails Neymar signing a 3-year contract with the La Liga club.
As reported by Football Transfers, Barcelona had been awaiting the completion of a German investment firm’s acquisition of a 16 percent buyout of Barca Studios for €60 million. This step is crucial to releasing funds to finalise the Brazilian’s transfer.
Neymar has demonstrated his commitment to facilitate the move by agreeing to a reduction in his salary. As a result, the 31-year-old is projected to receive an annual wage of €13 million at the Spanish club.
In line with reports from the Daily Star, Neymar seems poised to follow in Lionel Messi’s footsteps by leaving Paris Saint-Germain. This decision comes after Neymar was informed during crucial discussions with new manager Luis Enrique that he does not feature in the team’s future plans.
Manager Luis Enrique, along with sporting director Luis Campos, conveyed a similar message to five players, including Neymar. This group of players has been informed that they are not part of the club’s strategic vision for the long term.
In addition to Neymar, the players affected by this decision include Marco Verratti, Hugo Ekitike, Juan Bernat, and Renato Sanches.
During these talks, they were informed that their presence is not required as the Ligue 1 champions continue their efforts to restructure the team after failing to secure victory in the UEFA Champions League.
Barca’s hierarchy approves Neymar’s return
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Neymar appears to be on a quest to find an immediate solution for his future after PSG’s hierarchy informed the forward that he was not going to be a part of Luis Enrique’s plans this season.
The Brazilian forward has consistently remained a subject of controversy and was named among the list of potential replacements Barcelona could explore following the imminent departure of Ousmane Dembele.
Joan Laporta’s decision to shift attention to the former star, who departed the club in the most controversial of circumstances, has not gone down well with many at the club, with head coach Xavi Hernandez spearheading the group of those who are dissatisfied.
Kylian Mbappe has made a decision to remain with PSG for the upcoming 2023–24 season, according to reports.
This development marks a new turn in the ongoing Mbappe saga. Despite previously indicating to PSG that he didn’t plan to extend his contract beyond 2024, he now seems set to stay for at least one more season.
The club had attempted to offload Mbappe to avoid losing him without compensation.
However, a recent report from Le Parisien states that the 24-year-old has communicated his intention to remain with PSG and not make a move to Real Madrid or any other club this summer.
This decision is likely to disappoint PSG, which was aiming to avoid losing him as a free agent next year. Initially left out of the squad for the Asian tour, Mbappe’s plans to leave seemed evident.
Nevertheless, he has now informed PSG’s president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, of his commitment to stay and fulfil the final year of his contract.
Mbappe’s choice to stay for another year means that he will potentially join Real Madrid as a free agent in the summer of 2024.
PSG had paid a substantial €180 million to acquire him from Monaco in 2017, so not securing a transfer fee for his departure raises concerns both in terms of prestige and financial implications.
It remains to be seen how PSG will react to this news.The question arises whether they will reintegrate him into the squad or keep him isolated, considering his potential contributions to the team.
There have been reports suggesting that Luis Enrique’s team might even be willing to bench him for the entire 2023–24 season. The impact of these latest revelations on the situation is yet to be determined.
