Kylian Mbappe scored despite the latest controversy over his future (Picture: Getty Images)
Paris Saint-Germain manager Christophe Galtier has dismissed reports that Kylian Mbappe wants to leave the club as rumour and says the striker had the best possible answer to speculation by scoring on Tuesday night.
Widespread reports emerged on Tuesday stating that Mbappe is keen to leave PSG, despite only signing a new contract with the club earlier this year.
The 23-year-old is reportedly feeling ‘betrayed’ as promises, which were made to him when he rejected a move to Real Madrid and signed the new deal with PSG, have not been kept.
Despite the speculation, Mbappe started for PSG against Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday night and scored their only goal of the game in a 1-1 draw.
Galtier would not be drawn on his star striker’s future, but had praise for Mbappe, not only for scoring but for soldiering on after picking up a knock from an Enzo Fernandez tackle.
‘I can’t comment on it,’ Galtier told Canal+. ‘From a rumour we turned it into news and almost a statement.
‘Kylian therefore had a very good answer: he was a scorer, he could have scored a second goal. He gritted his teeth after this nasty tackle. I see Kylian who gave a certain response to this rumour.’
On dealing with the regular rumours linking Mbappe with an exit, specifically to Real Madrid, Galtier added: ‘We try not to be humorous, we try to be as transparent as possible without exaggerating the situations.
‘I find it strange that it comes out a few moments before such an important match for the club.’
Mbappe was not shaken by the speculation against Benfica (Picture: Getty Images)
Spanish publication Marca report that PSG had opened the door for Mbappe to leave in July but the French club made it clear that he would not be sold to Real Madrid, which is his preferred destination.
PSG, however, would be willing to sell Mbappe to Liverpool, who have failed with their attempt to sign the striker in the past.
Mbappe is frustrated over where he is being asked to play for PSG, Neymar’s place in the team and a lac of a new signing in defence.
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‘Kylian had a very good answer.’