Kylian Mbappe’s stats this season make up for an astonishing read. In 39 games, the Frenchman has scored as many goals while setting up his teammates 8 times as well. Remarkably, PSG’s next-best goalscorer doesn’t even have half of his tally! Yet, strikingly, not all the fans are appreciative of their star player. A shocking incident had come to light ahead of PSG’s French Cup victory over Rennes, a game in which Mbappe once again made the difference.
Footage from the Parc des Princes shows that some fans whistled at Kylian Mbappe as his name was announced on the big screen. Mbappe is not the only high-profile player to feel the wrath of the PSG faithful. Notably, a year ago, in March 2023, Lionel Messi was booed by PSG fans while Mbappe’s name was amusingly cheered and celebrated. The same occurred in March 2022, this time Neymar and Messi were jeered by the supporters.
Notably, a key reason why the supporters were unhappy with Messi and Neymar was because of the duo’s sub-par performances in the Champions League. Messi even missed a penalty in the faithful Real Madrid clash in 2022. This eventually contributed to the side’s elimination. However, unlike the superstar duo, Kylian Mbappe’s situation is vastly different.
The Frenchman is out of contract this summer. Moreover, there are rumors that Real Madrid are the frontrunners for Kylian Mbappe’s signature. Hence, it is understandable that the fans are unhappy with their talisman not committing to the club. While the club is still making last-ditch efforts to convince Mbappe, manager Luis Enrique is not helping the cause.
Luis Enrique’s puzzling treatment of Kylian Mbappe
Against Marseille on April 1st, Luis Enrique made a decision that left many scratching their heads. In the 64th minute, he withdrew Kylian Mbappe for Goncalo Ramos. The Frenchman was not happy and appeared to be making insulting remarks toward the coach on his way out. Per reports, Real Madrid were delighted at the incident, as this could strengthen their hold on Mbappe’s signing.
Notably, this was not an isolated incident, and Enrique has frequently withdrawn Kylian Mbappe in the middle of matches. The Spaniard had even given his explanation for the same. Enrique had said, “We have to get used to not playing with Kylian; sooner or later it will happen. When I consider it appropriate, he will play or not play.” Enriques’ actions certainly help in establishing his authority in the squad, but it’s not the best approach if the club wants to keep hold of the prolific Frenchman.