Kylian Mbappé’s Lawyers Launch Stirring Defense Against PSG

A high-stakes lawsuit is unfolding in Paris. At the labor court, lawyers for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Kylian Mbappé faced off in a dispute involving the France national team captain. Mbappé is seeking €55 million in unpaid wages and wants his fixed-term contract changed to a permanent contract. His legal team delivered a pointed argument, claiming a total of €260 million from the European champions.

Ethan Mbappé Found in Tears in PSG Locker Room

Mbappé’s defense described the situation as reminiscent of a Scorsese film, alleging that PSG acts as if it is above the rules. They highlighted the club’s obsession with preventing Mbappé from leaving for free, noting that he extended his contract in the summer of 2022 with a one-year option intended to give him freedom. They recounted the player’s sidelining on July 21, 2023, after he declined to renew his contract.

Mbappé’s representatives stated that he was informed he would not play for the rest of the season, with a message suggesting that his decision could result in staff layoffs. “The pressure continues; he’s benched for the first match of Ligue 1,” they said, detailing a meeting where pressure was applied again to dissuade his departure. An offer to extend his contract was reportedly presented to him: “PSG believes everything can be bought, which is unprecedented. I have never seen a club refuse to follow applicable rules and decisions,” they remarked.

PSG Responds

Before concluding, Mbappé’s attorney mentioned claims related to emotional distress, particularly concerning his younger brother Ethan, who was found crying after a match. They described PSG’s tactics as reminiscent of “thug methods,” employing a digital army to harass figures like Mbappé.

On the other hand, PSG is seeking approximately €240 million from their former striker, including €180 million in compensation related to a failed transfer after an offer from Saudi club Al-Hilal amounting to €300 million. Mbappé’s camp claims they never received this offer. This situation sparked the ongoing conflict, with PSG asserting, according to their attorneys, that they aimed to “transfer him in good condition” rather than sidelining him. The club insists that Mbappé, who knew he wouldn’t extend his contract as early as July 2022, is being disloyal. “Mbappé is demanding back pay while seeking to dismantle the system. It’s outrageous,” PSG’s lawyers said, stressing that the €55 million being claimed by Mbappé is “not owed at all.”