By Kylian Mbappe’s transfer saga appears to be nearing its conclusion, with the player informing PSG of his intention to leave when his contract expires this summer. Real Madrid is reportedly his likely destination, signaling a new chapter for both Mbappe and PSG.
Last June, tensions were high between Mbappe and PSG as the Frenchman announced his decision not to extend his contract. It seemed unlikely that he would continue playing for PSG beyond the 2023-24 season. However, an agreement was eventually reached, and Mbappe decided to stay for one more season. Now, he has communicated his decision to leave at the end of the current season, with Real Madrid expected to offer him a lucrative contract.
For Mbappe, this decision was undoubtedly difficult, considering he was born in Paris. Since joining PSG in 2017, he has shattered numerous individual club records, becoming the club’s all-time top scorer with 244 goals at just 25 years old.
Mbappe’s departure will be a significant loss for PSG, who signed him initially on loan with a mandatory purchase option of 180 million Euros. His exit also signifies the end of PSG’s first Galactico era, which featured stars like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Beckham, Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Mbappe, but failed to secure the coveted Champions League title.
Under Nasser Al-Khelaifi’s leadership since 2012, PSG has consistently brought in superstar signings each season. However, their strategy has not translated into Champions League success, resulting in several early exits from the knockout stages and a defeat in the 2020 final.
PSG was well aware that Mbappe would eventually leave due to their Champions League shortcomings. They began planning ahead last summer, making key signings such as Randal Kolo Muani (24), Goncalo Ramos (22), Bradley Barcola (20), Lee Kang-in (22), and Manuel Ugarte (22). They also added experience with Ousmane Dembele (26) and Lucas Hernandez (27). Their transfer spending reached close to 400 million Euros. Additionally, PSG is expected to give significant playing time to their young talents next season, including 17-year-old Warren Zaire-Emery, Ethan Mbappe, Ishamel Gharbi, and Sennu Mayulu. Xavi Simons, currently on loan at RB Leipzig, is in excellent form and will be a key player for PSG upon his return.
