Kylian Mbappe has once again affirmed his intention to leave Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a free transfer at the end of the season, despite extensive talks over a contract extension earlier this summer.
The French striker, who has been a pivotal figure in PSG’s squad, reportedly informed the club of his decision not to sign a new contract. What’s even more astonishing is that Mbappe is willing to forgo an €80 million (£69 million/$86 million) loyalty bonus owed to him by the club. Instead, he plans to depart when his current contract expires in 2024. This decision has left PSG in a difficult position, as they now face the prospect of losing one of their star players without any financial compensation.
This development is not the first time Kylian Mbappe has tested PSG’s resolve. At the end of the previous season, he initially declined to trigger an option to extend his contract for another year. This put PSG in a precarious situation, with the potential of losing their prized asset for free looming. In response, PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi issued an ultimatum, demanding that Mbappe either extend his contract or be sold during the transfer window. However, no move materialized during the summer, and discussions about a new deal ensued.
Now, it appears that Kylian Mbappe has reverted to his initial stance, announcing his departure in 2024. This decision leaves PSG with a dilemma regarding Mbappe’s immediate future. Al-Khelaifi had warned the 24-year-old that he could face a season on the bench if he refused to commit to the club. Still, Mbappe’s impressive return to Luis Enrique’s squad, where he has already netted five goals in three Ligue 1 matches this season, highlights his significance to the team.
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