In a surprising turn of events, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has announced the reinstatement of star striker Kylian Mbappé into the first team. This decision comes after weeks of tension between the player and the club due to Mbappé's refusal to sign a contract extension.
Earlier this summer, the French international was notably absent from PSG's pre-season tour of South Korea and Japan. Upon the team's return to Paris, he was relegated to training with the reserves. This move was seen as a punitive measure, especially when Mbappé was conspicuously left out of PSG's opening Ligue 1 match against Lorient at the Parc des Princes. During the game, which ended in a goalless draw, Mbappé was spotted in the stands, sharing the view with new signing Ousmane Dembele.
However, the atmosphere seemed to shift dramatically within hours of that match. Following "constructive, positive talks" between the club and the player, PSG released a statement confirming Mbappé's return to the first-team training squad. This decision was further emphasized by PSG president Nasser Al Khelaifi, who declared in front of the squad, "Kylian is committed to PSG. Kylian is back."
Despite the public display of unity, the underlying reasons for the dispute remain a topic of intense speculation. Mbappé, whose contract with PSG expires in the summer of 2024, had expressed his desire to see out the remaining year of his contract. However, he was reluctant to commit to an additional year. This hesitation from their star player, who they risked losing on a free transfer, understandably concerned the PSG hierarchy.
Al-Khelaifi had previously issued an ultimatum to Mbappé: sign an extension or leave the club. Yet, despite a staggering world record transfer fee offer of $332 million (258 million pounds) from Saudi club Al-Hilal, Mbappé declined. This proposed deal, worth an astonishing $1.1 billion, would have positioned Mbappé as the highest-paid player in football history.
Rumors have long circulated that Mbappé harbors aspirations to join Spanish giants Real Madrid. Many believed he planned to make the move on a free transfer next summer. However, the recent developments at PSG might indicate a change in trajectory. While it's unclear if Mbappé has agreed to a new contract, it's reported that PSG has proposed a revised one-year deal with a guaranteed sale clause. This would mean that while Mbappé could leave next summer, it would not be on a free transfer.
As the football world watches with bated breath, one thing is certain: Kylian Mbappé's future remains one of the most captivating storylines in the sport. For now, fans can look forward to seeing him back in action, as he is expected to join the first-team squad in training this week and could feature in PSG's upcoming match against Toulouse.
