July 23, (THEWILL) – Paris Saint-Germain captain Marquinhos has commented on the ongoing contract dispute with Kylian Mbappe, hoping for a resolution that would see the French superstar return to the squad for the upcoming season.
THEWILL recalls that Mbappe was notably absent from the 29-player squad chosen for PSG’s pre-season tour in Japan and South Korea, a decision made by the management. Speaking with reporters in the Japanese city of Osaka, Marquinhos said of Mbappe: “He is an exceptional player but it is a decision that was taken over our heads by the management.”
Marquinhos acknowledged the delicacy of the situation, saying: “Even in Japan, you are here with your questions.” He complained about having to deal with not escalating things, although new coach Luis Enrique, sitting alongside the Brazilian, escaped without being asked about Mbappe. “We always want to have top players with us and I hope a decision will be taken to allow him to be with us and help us this season,” Marquinhos added.
However, with the player’s current contract set to expire next year and no extension in sight, PSG appears to be applying pressure on Mbappe to either commit to a new deal or explore a transfer option. The 24-year-old forward joined PSG in 2017 and signed a two-year extension in 2022, with an option for a third season until 2025. PSG believe that the player already has an agreement in place with Real Madrid to join the Spanish giants as a free agent after the upcoming season.
Additionally, sources close to the player mention a lucrative offer from a Saudi Arabian club, although such a move seems highly unlikely. PSG’s friendly match against Al-Nassr in Osaka will proceed without Mbappe, but the hope remains that the dispute will be resolved, allowing him to return to the team’s ranks.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
