Everyone in the football world is wondering when Kylian Mbappé will finally make it official and join Real Madrid. Even the “cool” people who are pretending not to care are curious about the future of the most talented player on the planet.
There’s something that feels different about the rumors this year. Perhaps it is because Mbappé already burned Madrid once before and couldn’t possibly do it again.
But it is more likely that the vibe is different because of how little PSG have done to fight back – either through the media or with public statements – compared to how easily angered they were by any mere mention of an Mbappé to Madrid rumor.
Now, Mbappé has made quite the physical statement that he is done with PSG once and for all by literally stepping into the stands to sit next to his mother after being subbed by Luis Enrique at the half of an eventual 0-0 draw against former club AS Monaco.
This substitution was the second in a row for Mbappé, who was also taken off relatively early (65th minute) of PSG’s last Ligue 1 encounter against another quality opponent, Rennes.
It is unprecedented for PSG to make this kind of a statement by subbing their clear best player at the half of an important match, but that’s the statement the club want to send to Mbappé.
And Mbappé is sending one right back to PSG and the whole world, Real Madrid included. He is leaving Paris and spreading his wings to a more prestigious and successful club.
It is surprising that Mbappé did not join Madrid in the past, but he believed the Qatari ownership’s promises of better investment and was surely swayed by an unfathomable amount of cash.
Mbappé has his money but is still lacking in the accomplishments. The Ballon d’Or and Champions League crown are beckoning him at Real Madrid.
Former editor of The Real Champs and Old Juve, covering Real Madrid and Juventus
