Mbappe CAN’T STAND key PSG figure as Luis Enrique takes ‘high stakes’ decision

Robin Bairner

Updated: 2 Mar 2024 19:56 GMT
4 min read

Kylian Mbappe, Luis Enrique, PSG, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Kylian Mbappe’s departure from PSG promises to be an acrimonious one, with the relationship between the striker and head coach Luis Enrique having deteriorated dramatically.

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Mbappe has barely been out of the football transfer news headlines in recent weeks.

His decision to leave PSG has caused shockwaves around the world, with a move on a free transfer at the end of his contract in June to Real Madrid on the cards.

This has been the catalyst for some less-than-favourable treatment from the Ligue 1 leaders.

Having been the golden boy of the club, he was taken off early against Rennes last week and was replaced at half-time on his return to Monaco after a miserable first-half display.

FT: Monaco 0-0 PSG

Quite incredible this finished goalless, with Donnarumma outstanding for PSG in the first half and some big chances for the visitors in the second.

All the talk, though, will be over Kylian Mbappe. Taken off at half-time after a poor first half, instead of… pic.twitter.com/e8e1c2Oy2q
— Robin Bairner (@RBairner) March 1, 2024

FootMercato reports that Mbappe’s relationship with Enrique has deteriorated to such an extent that the two men “can’t stand” each other. This has not been made explicit in terms of words, however.

“In reality, things haven't flowed between the two men for a while,” the report says. “Sources at the club even claim that in private, they can no longer stand each other, without there having been any verbal or physical confrontation. These tensions have never been demonstrative.”

© IMAGO - Kylian Mbappe and Luis Enrique

© IMAGO - Kylian Mbappe shares a joke with Achraf Hakimi

PSG take major Mbappe decision

Luis Enrique, though, still plans to use Mbappe in “high stakes” matches, according to L’Equipe.

That means that PSG are counting on their leading scorer in the Champions League, including Tuesday’s clash against Real Sociedad in the last 16, a fixture that Luis Enrique’s side travel with a 2-0 advantage after Mbappe scored in the first leg.

READ MORE: Latest Kylian Mbappe transfer news

Mbappe’s participation in Ligue 1, however, is liable to be significantly reduced.

“Sooner or later we will have to play without him,” Luis Enrique said after each of the last two league matches, both of which have ended in draws.

The former Spain coach is ready to begin PSG’s transition to a post-Mbappe era immediately, which is a decision the striker is unlikely to appreciate.