First the championship, then the contract extension with Kylian Mbappe: Paris Saint-Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino’s plan is crystal clear five games before the end of the French football Ligue 1 season. In the home game against RC Lens, the tenth championship title in the club’s history should be secured early, but one point is enough for the star ensemble around Mbappe, Neymar and Lionel Messi on Saturday evening (9 p.m.) in the Prinzenpark.
After that, the biggest construction site in the PSG squad should be tackled. Because superstar Mbappe’s expiring contract has been the dominant topic on the Seine for what feels like forever. Last summer, the 23-year-old world champion from France had rejected several offers from Real Madrid and remained loyal to PSG. Mbappe then excelled again as a goalscorer with 33 goals and 22 assists in 41 competitive games. In the premier class, however, came the early end in the round of 16 against Real.
“I would like to keep him for selfish reasons. And take him on holiday, take him home,” Pochettino said of Mbappe. “We would like him to be extended and stay. That’s very clear. It would be important for him to stay, but these decisions have to be made by the player, the club and different parties.”
But first, the championship title should be celebrated. “Discussions will start and decisions will be made when the goal is achieved. That’s what’s best for the club and the players,” Pochettino stressed. Due to a rivalry between the two fan groups and expected riots, no away fans from Lens are allowed on Saturday evening.
(APA)
Bild: Imago
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