Paris Saint-Germain Leaves Kylian Mbappe Off Preseason Squad As Rift Intensifies

The club’s latest decision regarding its star forward seemed to hint at its position on the developing conflict.

The well-documented rift between Kylian Mbappé and Paris Saint-Germain added another dramatic chapter on Friday following the French club’s latest decision regarding its disgruntled superstar forward.

With Mbappé looking to move on from PSG, the reigning Ligue 1 champions made an eye-opening call to leave the 24-year-old off of their traveling squad ahead of their upcoming pre-season tour of Japan, the club announced.

PSG’s decision to hold Mbappé also coincides with the club officially putting the striker up for sale, per multiple reports. Interestingly, the news followed another standout Mbappé appearance for PSG, as the four-time Ligue 1 Player of the Year came off the bench and scored in a 2º0 friendly win over Ligue 2 side Le Havre.

Friday’s development comes amid ongoing speculation surrounding Mbappé’s future in the aftermath of announcing his intention not to re-sign with PSG once his contract expires in 2024.

While it remains to be seen what happens next for Mbappé, all signs appear to indicate his plan is to still eventually join Real Madrid next summer on a free transfer. However, given the latest news, things could change in the coming weeks.

Prior to PSG placing Mbappé on sale, club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi publicly presented the prized player with an ultimatum, stating earlier this month the club would look to offload him immediately, barring a new contract.

“We do not want him to leave for free in 2024,” Al-Khelaifi said. “Our position is clear. If Kylian wants to stay, we want him to stay. But he needs to sign a new contract. We don’t want to lose the best player in the world for free. It’s impossible.”