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Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) made a significant move by excluding the French football star Kylian Mbappe from their season opener, intensifying the ongoing standoff between the club and the player due to a contract dispute.
Mbappe’s absence from the lineup comes amid a contract disagreement between him and the club, highlighting the growing tension between the player and the team. At the same time, PSG announced the signing of Ousmane Dembele from Barcelona on a five-year contract.
Dembele’s arrival marks PSG’s ninth signing during this active summer transfer period, which has also seen notable departures like Lionel Messi to Inter Miami. As the club adjusts to these changes, it faces the potential reality of moving forward without both Messi and Mbappe. Speculation about Mbappe’s potential departure has been fueled by his reluctance to extend his contract, with Real Madrid being frequently rumored as his preferred destination.
The club’s stance on the matter has been clear, with PSG President Nasser al-Khelaifi stating that Mbappe must sign a new contract if he intends to continue with the team. This position aims to avoid losing one of the world’s top players without receiving a transfer fee. Mbappe’s limited participation in training and warm-up games underlines the complexity of the situation.
Despite his absence from the lineup, Mbappe extended a warm welcome to Dembele on social media, reflecting the camaraderie they developed during their joint victory in the 2018 World Cup. Dembele, who recently extended his contract with Barcelona until 2024, is now embarking on a fresh journey with PSG after the club triggered his €50 million release clause. He expressed his enthusiasm to represent PSG and contribute to the team’s progress.
With the addition of Dembele, PSG now boasts another French World Cup winner alongside Mbappe, Presnel Kimpembe, and Lucas Hernandez. This strategic move aligns with PSG’s efforts to strengthen their attacking options amid uncertainties regarding the futures of both Mbappe and Neymar.
In the meantime, PSG’s newly appointed coach, Luis Enrique, decided to exclude Brazilian forward Neymar from the season opener due to a “viral syndrome.” The possibility of selling Neymar, as well as Italian midfielder Marco Verratti, who was also absent from the squad for the Lorient match, underscores the evolving dynamics within the team.
As PSG navigates through contract negotiations, new signings, and player management, the club enters a new chapter under the leadership of Luis Enrique. The omission of Mbappe and Neymar from the opening match underscores the challenges PSG faces in maintaining stability and competitiveness while managing significant changes.
