Thierry Henry Urges Kylian Mbappe to Stay at PSG, Despite Real Madrid and Arsenal Interest
Kylian Mbappe has been the subject of transfer speculation as Real Madrid and Arsenal show interest in signing the talented striker. However, former Arsenal legend Thierry Henry is urging Mbappe to remain at Paris-Saint Germain (PSG) for the upcoming season. Henry’s reasoning stems from the fact that Mbappe has expressed his willingness to join Arsenal in order to follow in Henry’s footsteps, who is regarded as one of the greatest legends in Arsenal history.
The 25-year-old Mbappe is considered one of the best strikers in the world and played a pivotal role in France’s World Cup victory in 2018. This has led Arsenal to explore the possibility of signing him. However, the Gunners have been hesitant to break their wage structure to secure the deal and have received advice from pundits to avoid pursuing Mbappe.
While Real Madrid remains the frontrunner to sign Mbappe, they have yet to reach an agreement with PSG as his contract expires in the summer. PSG has also offered a contract extension to Mbappe, which would be the ideal situation for Henry as he prepares to coach France’s football team in the 2024 Olympics, hosted by France. If Mbappe chooses to stay in Paris, it would allow him to participate in the Olympics and potentially secure a gold medal for France.
In an interview with CBS, Henry discussed Mbappe’s future and the Olympic situation. When asked about the possibility of Mbappe moving on from PSG, Henry expressed his concern as a coach at the Olympics, stating that he would like to see Mbappe play for France but understands that it ultimately depends on his team’s approval.
Henry further explained that the Olympic Games are not considered a FIFA date, meaning that teams have the option to decline releasing players for the tournament. This poses a challenge for players who play for teams abroad, as their clubs have the authority to prevent them from participating in the Olympics. If Mbappe were to move to Real Madrid, for example, Henry would have to wait until the player signs with the new club and then convince them to release him for the Olympics.
Despite these complications, Henry is encouraged by Mbappe’s statement that he wants to play in the Olympics. As a coach, it gives Henry hope that Mbappe will prioritize representing France in the prestigious tournament.
In conclusion, Thierry Henry is keen for Kylian Mbappe to remain at PSG, even though Real Madrid and Arsenal are interested in signing him. Henry’s support for Mbappe stems from the striker’s desire to follow in his footsteps at Arsenal. While Arsenal have explored the possibility of signing Mbappe, they are hesitant to break their wage structure. Real Madrid remains the favorites to secure Mbappe’s signature, but PSG has offered him a contract extension. The situation becomes complicated due to the Olympic Games not being a FIFA date and the teams’ authority to release players. However, Henry is hopeful that Mbappe will prioritize playing for France in the Olympics, which he will be coaching.