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Tag: Mbappe

  • La Liga chief confirms Mbappe for Real Madrid

    La Liga chief confirms Mbappe for Real Madrid

    La Liga president Javier Tebas says Paris Saint-Germain striker Kylian Mbappe will join Real Madrid next season.

    The 25-year-old France captain announced last week he is leaving PSG at the end of his contract this summer, without specifying his destination, and Madrid are poised to sign him after years of failed attempts.

     “He’s Madrid’s next season, yes,” Tebas told Argentine daily sports newspaper Ole on Monday. “If they’ve signed a five-year deal, he has five seasons of opportunity (to win the Champions League).”

    Mbappe is set to join a star-studded Madrid team led by Brazil’s Vinicius Junior and England international Jude Bellingham.

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    Los Blancos strolled to the Spanish title and are in the Champions League final at Wembley against Borussia Dortmund on June 1.

    ”(Mbappe) is one of the best players in the world, but Vinicius and Bellingham are there too, Madrid will have a great squad,” continued Tebas. “But that does not guarantee you will win leagues.”

    Mbappe is PSG’s all-time record scorer with 256 goals, having joined the club from Monaco in 2017 for 180 million euros ($194 million).

    With PSG he won six French league titles but failed to earn Champions League glory, finishing as runners-up to Bayern Munich in 2020.

    By joining record 14-time winners Real Madrid, Mbappe would increase his chances of finally earning club football’s most prestigious trophy.

  • Mbappe announces exit from PSG

    Mbappe announces exit from PSG

    France striker Kylian Mbappe said he will leave Paris St-Germain at the end of the season.

    Mbappe, 25, announced the decision in a video released on his social media, external accounts.

    “I’ve always said that I would speak with you when the time comes,” Mbappe said. “It’s my last year at Paris St-Germain. I will not extend and the adventure will come to an end in a few weeks.

    ” Mbappe’s contract with PSG expires in June and BBC Sport reported in February that he has agreed a deal to join Real Madrid in the summer.

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    The World Cup winner is PSG’s record goalscorer with 255 goals and will play his final home game at the Parc des Princes against Toulouse in Ligue 1 on Sunday at 20:00 BST.

    After that PSG have away fixtures at Nice (15 May) and Metz (19 May) before the French Cup final against Lyon at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille on 25 May.

    Paris-born Mbappe, who joined PSG from Monaco for £165.7m in August 2017, said the club helped “grow as a player” and “grow as a man as well”.

    He added: “It’s a lot of emotions, many years where I had the chance and the great honour to be a member of the biggest French club, one of the best in the world. “It allowed me to arrive here, to have my first experience in a club with a lot of pressure, to grow as a player of course, by being alongside some of the best in history, some of the greatest champions.

    “It’s hard and I never thought it would be this difficult to announce that. But I think I needed this, a new challenge, after seven years.””

  • Deschamps doubts Mbappe’s presence at Olympics

    Deschamps doubts Mbappe’s presence at Olympics

    France coach Didier Deschamps has cast doubt on Kylian Mbappe’s chances of representing his country at this year’s Paris Olympics, saying that it would be “very difficult” to compete at the Games straight after Euro 2024.

     “It is very difficult from a psychological and physical viewpoint to take part in two competitions like that one after the other, in the summer, without having any holiday,” Deschamps admitted.

    The France coach confirmed that some members of his squad for the European Championship are likely to also feature in the Olympics squad, which will be named by Thierry Henry.

    However, Deschamps said the Euro “remains the priority” and that the identities of those players featuring at the Olympics would need to be known before the continental championship, which starts on June 14.

     “We don’t want any interference with our preparations, so once we are in our training camp at Clairefontaine, it needs to be clear who is going and who is not going,” Deschamps said.

    It is understood that Paris Saint-Germain superstar Mbappe, the France captain, is very keen to represent his country at the Olympics, along with Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann.

    Yet the European Championship in Germany does not finish until July 14, with the Olympic football tournament beginning on July 24.

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    Men’s football at the Summer Games is for players aged under 23, although three overage players can feature too, paving the way for the 25-year-old Mbappe and other senior French stars to take part.

    However, football’s world governing body FIFA does not oblige clubs to release players for the Olympics, which could complicate Mbappe’s situation even more.

    The forward has already told PSG he plans to leave when his contract expires at the end of this season and Real Madrid is expected to be his next destination.

    His new club is unlikely to be thrilled at the prospect of Mbappe going to the Games rather than taking a holiday ahead of the start of the new season – the final of the Olympic tournament is set for August 9.

    France legend Henry is currently in charge of the national Under-21 side and will oversee the team at the Olympics.

    He accepts that whether Mbappe features in the squad does not ultimately come down to him.

     “I have no certainties. I am at the mercy of a yes or a no from a club,” Henry said. “And then if they agree and then change coach in the meantime, who is to say I would still have him?”

  • Mbappe replaced as PSG draw at Monaco

    Mbappe replaced as PSG draw at Monaco

    Kylian Mbappe was replaced at half-time and watched the second half with his mother in the stands as Paris St-Germain drew at his former club Monaco.

    Mbappe, PSG’s all-time top scorer with 244 goals, has agreed a deal to join Real Madrid at the end of the season.

    Boss Luis Enrique replaced him with Randal Kolo Muani at half-time.

    “It was 100% the coach’s decision because sooner or later we will have to get used to playing without Kylian Mbappe,” Luis Enrique said.

    “I took this decision for the good of the team.”

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    Mbappe, 25, changed into a tracksuit and spoke on his phone in the tunnel before joining his family in the crowd instead of his team-mates on the bench.

    PSG visit Real Sociedad in the Champions League last-16 second leg on Tuesday.

    The champions are 12 points clear of Brest at the top of Ligue 1, with Monaco another point back in third.

  • Beyond Mbappe: Liverpool’s Ambitious Summer Transfer Targets Unveiled

    Beyond Mbappe: Liverpool’s Ambitious Summer Transfer Targets Unveiled

    After months of speculation, it appears that Kylian Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid is all but finalized. Despite being one of the leading teams bidding for the young PSG superstar, Liverpool now finds itself recalibrating its transfer strategy for the months ahead.

    As the summer transfer window approaches, the Reds find themselves at a crossroads. Many betting sites still project Liverpool to finish at the top of the Premier League table this season, but given their current contracts, Liverpool might already be plotting the next chapter.

    With Mbappe seemingly off the table, let’s delve into the potential recruits that could grace the hallowed Anfield turf this summer.

    10. Giorgio Scalvini

    EPL clubs have a history with Atalanta, and Liverpool might be eyeing the 20-year-old center-back, Scalvini. Having showcased his skills in Serie A, he’s not just a solid defensive option but also a versatile player comfortable in midfield. His emergence on the international stage adds an extra layer of intrigue, making Scalvini a potential gem for Liverpool’s defensive puzzle.

    9. Jarrad Branthwaite

    Young, experienced, and a product of the English football scene, Branthwaite could be an exciting prospect for Liverpool’s defensive lineup. The 21-year-old center-back has been making waves at Everton, providing the defensive prowess Liverpool might be looking for. With a taste of top-flight football both in England and abroad, Branthwaite’s maturity belies his age, making him a promising option for the Reds.

    8. Joao Neves

    Benfica’s defensive midfielder, Joao Neves, caught the attention in January, despite firm denials from the Portuguese club. The 19-year-old’s form and ability to control the midfield make him a potential target for Liverpool. His composure on the ball and tactical awareness align with Liverpool’s style of play, potentially offering the midfield stability and creativity they seek.

    7. Evan Ferguson

    To fill the void left by Mbappe, Liverpool might turn to the Irish striker, Evan Ferguson. With a new long-term contract at Brighton, he could be seen as a worthwhile investment, bringing youth and goal-scoring prowess. Ferguson’s ability to find the net and adaptability in various attacking roles make him an intriguing prospect for Liverpool, injecting fresh blood into their attacking lineup.

    6. Bruno Guimaraes

    Newcastle’s financial constraints could play into Liverpool’s hands, with Bruno Guimaraes being a potential target. A skilled midfielder, his quality in the Premier League is evident, and he might be a strategic addition to the Reds’ midfield. Guimaraes’ ability to dictate play, coupled with his defensive attributes, could address Liverpool’s midfield needs, providing depth and versatility.

    5. Randal Kolo Muani

    Hailing from the footballing hotbed of Bondy, Muani’s lethal presence in Eintracht Frankfurt’s attack has turned heads. At just 25, he brings a blend of pace, aerial ability, and goal-scoring prowess—a tantalizing prospect for Liverpool. Muani’s knack for finding the back of the net, combined with his physical attributes, positions him as a dynamic attacking force that could add a new dimension to Liverpool’s forward line.

    4. Alexander Isak

    Newcastle’s record signing, Isak, could be a formidable force for Liverpool. The agile and towering Swede, who previously played for Real Sociedad, has proven himself in the Premier League, making him an attractive option. Isak’s versatility in playing centrally or out wide, coupled with his goal-scoring prowess, aligns with Liverpool’s attacking philosophy, offering depth and flexibility to their frontline.

    3. Lautaro Martinez

    A consistent performer for Inter Milan, Martinez’s goal-scoring exploits make him a sought-after striker. Liverpool might be tempted to secure the services of this physically robust Argentine to bolster their attacking options. Martinez’s tireless work ethic, combined with his clinical finishing, presents a formidable attacking threat. His ability to adapt to different tactical setups could seamlessly integrate into Liverpool’s dynamic style of play.

    2. Victor Osimhen

    Napoli’s Nigerian sensation, Osimhen, showcased his goal-scoring prowess last season. His rapid pace and clinical finishing make him a complete package, fitting seamlessly into Liverpool’s attacking style. Osimhen’s ability to lead the line and create goal-scoring opportunities aligns with Liverpool’s high-intensity approach, potentially providing the cutting edge they desire in the final third.

    1. Antoine Griezmann

    The seasoned Frenchman, Griezmann, has defied age with his exceptional performances at Atletico Madrid. Despite being 32, his technical proficiency and goal-scoring prowess make him a valuable asset. While there’s no indication of a departure, Liverpool’s financial prowess could sway the tides. Griezmann’s experience and versatility could add a touch of class to Liverpool’s attacking lineup, bringing leadership and creativity to the forefront.

  • Summer Transfer: Mbappe agrees  deal to join Real Madrid 

    Summer Transfer: Mbappe agrees  deal to join Real Madrid 

    Mbappe has not signed a contract with Real yet, but the deal could be announced once it is no longer possible for the clubs to meet in this season’s Champions League.

    The World Cup winner is PSG’s record goalscorer with 244 goals.

    Mbappe wanted his future sorted before March, so on 13 February, before training, he met PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and told him he was leaving and joining Real.

    After reports emerged last Thursday that he would leave, Mbappe was left out of the starting line-up for Saturday’s match against Nantes, but came off the bench to score a penalty as PSG went 14 points clear at the top of Ligue 1.

    He is set to sign a five-year deal with Real, earning 15m euros (£12.8m) a season, plus a 150m euro (£128m) signing-on bonus to be paid over five years, and he will keep a percentage of his image rights.

    Real manager Carlo Ancelotti has already thought how he will use Mbappe in his team, with England midfielder Jude Bellingham playing a deeper role, Brazilian Vinicius Jr playing on the left and Mbappe playing left of centre.

    If Croatia midfielder Luka Modric leaves this summer, then Mbappe would inherit the number 10 shirt he wears for France.

    PSG are 2-0 up against Real Sociedad after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, while Real lead RB Leipzig 1-0.

    Mbappe won the French title with Monaco before joining PSG as an 18-year-old in 2017, initially on loan before a 180m euro (£165.7m) move.

    Overall, he has 244 goals and 93 assists in 291 games for PSG and has helped the club to five Ligue 1 title wins.

    Mbappe was set to leave PSG on a free transfer at the end of the 2021-22 season but ultimately signed a two-year contract extension, with the option of a further year.

    However, after Mbappe told PSG he would not agree to the additional 12 months of the deal, he was not selected for their pre-season tour to Japan last July.

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    He subsequently refused to meet with representatives of Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, who made a world record £259m offer for him.

    He later returned to first-team training following what PSG said were “very constructive and positive” talks.

    Mbappe turned down a move to Real when he agreed to his current deal with PSG in May 2022.

    He has a one-year extension clause, so it is expected his departure will involve either a sale with a transfer fee or financial sacrifices on the player’s part.

    “He is no doubt one of the players anyone would love to have on his side. He is an amazing player,” former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon told the BBC’s Football News Show.

    “We have very young players – he will join Vinicius, Rodrygo, Bellingham – and I think we have a very strong team. That’s why we are leading La Liga and also we’ve won all our matches in the Champions League.

    “So, for him it would be fantastic. Every fan of Real Madrid would like to see him playing in the Bernabeu.

    “He will leave a mark. If he continues to play as he has up until now, for sure he will be one of the important players we have had in our history.”

  • Mbappe tells PSG he plans to leave at end of season

    Mbappe tells PSG he plans to leave at end of season

    France striker Kylian Mbappe has told Paris St-Germain he intends to leave the club at the end of the season.

    The 25-year-old’s deal with the Ligue 1 champions is scheduled to expire and he has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid.

    Mbappe’s future was the subject of a major stand-off with PSG last summer.

    At one point, Mbappe was exiled from the first-team squad and left out of the club’s pre-season tour of Asia.

    However, an agreement was reached that ensured PSG would not lose out when Mbappe eventually left and the terms of his now seemingly inevitable exit are still to be confirmed.

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    The forward has a one-year extension clause, so it is expected his departure will involve either a sale with a transfer fee or financial sacrifices on the player’s part.

    Whilst PSG would have wanted Mbappe to remain at the club, his exit looks set to come as they aim to build a younger squad and move away from the ‘Galacticos’ plan, that has also seen Argentina forward Lionel Messi and Brazil international Neymar leave since the end of last season.

    It is estimated Mbappe, who won the World Cup with France in 2018, earns around €200m per year (£171m).

  • UCL: Mbappe back for PSG tie with Real Sociedad

    UCL: Mbappe back for PSG tie with Real Sociedad

    Kylian Mbappe sat out Paris St Germain’s Ligue 1 game at the weekend, but their top scorer is set to return for the Champions League last 16 tie with Real Sociedad, manager Luis Enrique said on Tuesday.

    Mbappe, who has scored 30 goals in 29 games this season, was an unused substitute in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Lille, a precaution taken after he took a knock to his ankle three days previously in another 3-1 win, over Brest in the Coup de France.

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    The French forward has played the full 90 minutes in all six Champions League games this season for PSG and that doesn’t look like changing when they host the Spanish side in today’s first leg.

    “When a team has a player like Kylian Mbappe, of course we know that the more he plays the better, because we all benefit from that,” Luis Enrique told a press conference.

    “There is no doubt about it. He could have played (on Saturday) if it had been a final, but it wasn’t, it was not worth the risk. Kylian Mbappe is available, just like the other players.”

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    The manager could afford to rest Mbappe in the league, where PSG now have an 11 point advantage at the top over Nice, and have gone 16 games unbeaten, but in the Champions League it hasn’t all been plain sailing.

    PSG finished second in their group behind Borussia Dortmund and lost to Newcastle United and AC Milan. They are also without a win in their last three games in the competition, a sharp contrast to Real Sociedad.

    Real may be struggling domestically, seventh in LaLiga, but they topped their Champions League group, which included Inter Milan, and are undefeated in Europe this season.

    “Real Sociedad have a tight defence in the Champions League, they don’t give the ball away easily. We have to press them aggressively,” Luis Enrique said.

    “They are certainly one of the best teams in the competition that is why they qualified as group winners. They were in a group with last year’s finalists.”

  • Mbappe exit may push PSG to Osimhen

    Mbappe exit may push PSG to Osimhen

    Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly added Napoli star Victor Osimhen to their wish list should Kylian Mbappe leave in the summer.

    With less than six months left on his contract in the French capital, multiple media reports have recently claimed that Mbappe has decided to leave PSG on a free transfer in the summer in order to join up with Real Madrid, a transfer saga that has been rumbling on for years now.

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    PSG have now been linked with a move for Milan star Rafael Leao, who has history with club consultant Luis Campos. The Portuguese winger has a €175m release clause in his contract, active from July 5 to 15 and payable in multiple installments.

    As reported by Corriere dello Sport and Il Mattino, PSG are looking for a new star forward to replace Mbappe should he leave in the summer and have added Osimhen to their wish list, aware that the Napoli striker is keen to switch clubs at the end of the season.

    The Nigerian star has a release clause in his contract and has also attracted serious attention from multiple top Premier League clubs.

  • PSG tight-lipped over Mbappe switch to Real Madrid

    PSG tight-lipped over Mbappe switch to Real Madrid

    With just six months remaining on his contract at Paris Saint-Germain Kylian Mbappe’s much vaunted move to Real Madrid continues to dominate French football news.

    The transfer window closed last week with Mbappe insisting he is yet to decide where he will play after this current deal with PSG concludes at the end of June, when he becomes a free agent.

    On Saturday both ESPN and the ‘Parisien’ daily newspaper reported, without naming their source, that the superstar striker would leave France and join the world’s biggest club Real Madrid.

    A source at the French club told AFP yesterday, however, there had 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 the PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi will be 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,” the 25-year-old told French television.

    The France captain who is expected to head the Olympic team at the 2024 Paris Games added he would inform Khelaifi first and announce the news himself once any decision had been made.

    PSG coach Luis Enrique, a former Real player, said Thursday, ahead of a game where Mbappe scored his 20th  league goal of the season, that the player had revealed nothing to him personally.

    What does appear certain is that Mbappe has signed no deal as yet but is, in fact, locked in negotiations with Madrid over the size of his salary, an issue where the Qatar-backed PSG could easily match Real.

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    Mbappe is paid some 70 million euros (75.6 million dollars) a year already and as a free agent will be able to negotiate a blockbuster signing on fee on top of any salary increase.

    PSG themselves appear to be pulling out all the stops to cling on to Mbappe’a sublime skills after allowing Lionel Messi and Neymar to leave the capital.

    Neither Messi nor Neymar have been missed as new arrivals such as Randal Kolo Muani and Marco Asnesio have struck up an understanding with Mbappe.

    If the 2018 World Cup winner and 2022 World Cup top scorer does join Madrid in July, he would join English sensation the 20-year-old Jude Bellingham and Brazilian strikers Rodrygo and Vinicius, one of whom would have to make way for the Frenchman.