Real Madrid don’t get the Mbappe answer they wanted after PSG defeat
Robin Bairner
- 8 Nov 2023 05:19 CST
- 4 min read
Kylian Mbappe’s performance for PSG against AC Milan on Tuesday saw him criticised in the French media following the 2-1 defeat.
Inevitably, the 24-year-old’s ongoing transfer links with Real Madrid were raised in the aftermath of an encounter in which he looked isolated from his side and was comfortably nullified.
Mbappe passed up two first-half opportunities to score for Luis Enrique’s side, who have now won only three of their eight away trips this season.
MORE: PSG chief Al-Khelaifi breaks silence on Real Madrid's Mbappe statement
The striker has stoutly refused to commit his future to the club by signing a new contract, and as such is set to become a free agent in June 2024, when his deal expires.
A move to Real Madrid appears the likeliest course of action, but Mbappe has refused to discuss the prospect.
In the mixed zone at San Siro, he was again probed about his commitment to PSG, particularly after Real Madrid released an official statement indicating that they have not entered contract talks with him.
MORE: Real Madrid’s clever reason for making official Mbappe announcement
Mbappe's latest Real Madrid statement
Although Mbappe, who finished third in the 2023 Ballon d'Or voting, indicated that he was “leaving”, it was not in the manner that Real Madrid fans had hoped.
Asked if he believes PSG still have a chance of winning the Champions League, he said: “The priority now is to win the next game against Newcastle. It is difficult, but we will continue and we will see what we can do.”
It was then the Real Madrid issue was raised, at which point Mbappe said: “I'm leaving, I'm sorry, I'm leaving. Everyone’s waiting on the bus...”
Mbappe’s future is likely to drag significantly into 2024, with the indications suggesting that he will not commit himself to a decision until April.
Real Madrid may no longer be obsessed with the idea of signing the France star, according to reports in Spain, but there is no doubt that he remains at the very top of their transfer shortlist and if the opportunity arises to sign him, it is one they will try to take.
Los Blancos can open talks with Mbappe officially on 1 January, assuming, of course, he does not sign a new PSG contract.
