‘A storm of problems’: Luis Enrique laments reaction to Kylian Mbappé substitutions

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·13 de mayo de 2024

‘A storm of problems’: Luis Enrique laments reaction to Kylian Mbappé substitutions

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has bemoaned the reactions to him frequently substituting Kylian Mbappé (25) this season.

Since communicating his decision to leave the club to club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi on February 13th, Frenchman Mbappé has seen both his minutes on the pitch as well as his form sharply decline, culminating in a weak performance over the two legs of the club’s UEFA Champions League semi-final exit at the hands of Borussia Dortmund.

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Luis Enrique laments reaction to Kylian Mbappé substitutions

Speaking in his post-match press conference following the champions’ final day home defeat to Toulouse FC (1-3), revealed his reluctance to bring Mbappé off for a standing ovation given the criticism he has received for doing so throughout the season:

“I didn’t think about taking Kylian out because when I have done it this season, it has created a storm of problems. I could have taken him out in the 85th minute but I would have been criticised for that. I didn’t hear Kylian get booed, I heard applause, chants.. He deserved this tribute, he is a club legend. I saw the tifo, I found it every beautiful, I am very happy things happened like that, with this recognition for him. In that way, it was a perfect evening. He still has a few matches to play for PSG but I wish him the best for this career.”

Mbappé has three matches left to play for PSG before heading off to EURO 2024 and then, in all probability, joining Real Madrid upon the expiration of his contract at the end of June. PSG visit Metz on Wednesday, before rounding off their season at Nice next Sunday. The following weekend (May 25th) brings a chance for further silverware with a Coupe de France final against Olympique Lyonnais to round off his seven year spell with his hometown club.

GFFN | Jack McArdle