- 24 Dec 2024
Revealed: Why Mbappe rejected Real Madrid this summer
FT Desk
- Updated: 23 May 2023 08:56 CDT
- 4 min read
PSG coach Christophe Galtier has revealed the real reason why Kylian Mbappe changed his mind on joining Real Madrid this past summer.
Mbappe had seemed destined to join Real Madrid ahead of the current season but completed a dramatic turnaround by penning a three-year extension with PSG at the end of May.
Throughout 2021-22, it had been unanimously accepted that he would sign for Madrid on a Bosman transfer when his previous PSG contract expired.
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Having rejected a €200 million bid from Real Madrid for Mbappe in the summer of 2021, the Frenchman was believed to have already agreed a free transfer move to the club he supported as a child.
This was reinforced by the fact that he rejected numerous offers of a PSG extension throughout the campaign.
But, in a shock twist, Mbappe decided to sign a new deal at PSG in May
Galtier has now revealed why Mbappe made this decision.
What did Galtier say?
"There are many parameters. The first is his [Mbappe] desire. Does he want to continue at PSG? Is he happy here? The first thing to know is whether he wants to continue,” Galtier explained.
"All these types of decisions are made between the player and [sporting director] Luis Campos.
"I don't think it was the money. Because world-class players whether in Spain, England or France earn it. They are not for the money. I think Kylian simply loves PSG.
"It's the same situation as Leo [Messi]. When a player is happy somewhere he has no reason to leave. To be happy you have to enjoy. From the moment that the player enjoys on the field and that he feels that he is in a team that can win, he has no reason to leave.”
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Mbappe has been linked with still leaving PSG at the end of the current season.
Galtier was asked if he would bet his house on Mbappe still being at PSG next campaign.
"Which one? [laughs]. I ask you another question: If he is happy, why shouldn't Kylian be here next season?,” Galtier said.
Mbappe is currently starring at the 2022 World Cup, and has already scored three goals in the first two matches of the tournament.
He scored one in the 4-1 win versus Australia and two in the 2-1 victory against Denmark.
