In an in-depth interview on Clique aired on Canal+, Kylian Mbappe revealed the profound sacrifices and challenges he faced during his transition from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to Real Madrid. The Real Madrid striker shared personal anecdotes about his family, his time at PSG, and his recent exclusion from the French national team.
Mbappe disclosed that he was willing to forego his long-standing dream of joining Real Madrid for the sake of his younger brother Ethan, who played in PSG’s youth system. When Ethan expressed his desire to leave PSG, Kylian offered to renew his contract with the Parisian club to ensure his brother’s comfort and career stability. However, Ethan ultimately decided to move to Lille, allowing Kylian to fulfill his aspiration of playing for Real Madrid.
“It was Madrid or PSG, and my brother told me he didn’t want to stay. I told him, ‘If you want to stay, I’ll renew, and we’ll remain in Paris.’ I would have given up my dream for him because it makes no sense to join the best club in the world if it means harming your brother’s career,” Mbappe stated.
Mbappe also reflected on his seven years at PSG, emphasizing the intensity of the environment and the complexities of his departure. While rumors swirled about the Qatari emir offering him an irresistible deal to stay, Mbappe revealed that the emir respected his decision to leave for Madrid. “He told me, ‘You’ve decided to leave, and I respect your decision. Thank you for everything,’” Mbappe recalled, highlighting the positive relationship he maintained with PSG leadership.
Despite disputes with management and criticism from fans who claimed he lacked commitment to the club, Mbappe expressed his continued connection to PSG. “I spent seven years there; it’s not something you just cut off. I still watch PSG games and have ties to the club,” he explained.
Mbappe addressed his recent absence from the French national team, revealing that it was a mutual decision between him and coach Didier Deschamps. Initially, in September, Mbappe requested a break to recover from a busy schedule after his transfer to Real Madrid. Following an injury in October, Deschamps decided not to call him up, a decision Mbappe respected.
“He’s the boss, and I follow his decisions. I wanted to go, but I can’t say why I wasn’t called up,” Mbappe noted.
Mbappe also touched on his relationship with Lionel Messi following the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France. While acknowledging the intensity of the match, Mbappe shared that their shared experience brought them closer, emphasizing mutual respect.
Looking forward, Mbappe expressed his desire to secure a second World Cup trophy, adding, “If I manage to get two stars out of the three on the jersey… it wouldn’t be bad.”
Finally, Mbappe reflected on the harsh criticism he received during Euro 2021, including racist remarks and accusations of prioritizing Madrid over the French team. Despite these challenges, Mbappe reaffirmed his dedication to representing France. “I’ve always given everything for the national team. I serve my country, and I don’t give up,” he concluded.