Kylian Mbappe’s entourage has turned down the French football league’s (LFP) offer to mediate in the ongoing dispute between the France captain and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The disagreement centers around unpaid wages and bonuses for the striker, which PSG has contested.
Dispute Background
Kylian Mbappe has accused Paris Saint-Germain of owing him €55 million ($60.6 million). This amount includes his signing bonus, expected in February, three months’ salary, and an “ethical bonus” for his final period at the club. PSG, however, claims that Mbappe agreed to forgo these payments in August 2023. The conflict intensified when Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid this summer, took his case to the LFP’s legal committee.
Mediation Proposal
On Wednesday, Mbappe’s representatives rejected the LFP’s proposal to mediate the dispute. The league had suggested mediation as a way to resolve the issue amicably. However, Mbappe’s team dismissed this option, arguing that mediation would be ineffective in addressing the payment discrepancies.
“The eventuality of a mediation was mentioned this morning,” said Mbappe’s entourage in a statement to AFP. “This possibility was rejected during the meeting by the player’s representative. A mediation would be useless so to record a lack of payment that would be seen from a simple analysis of the player’s payslip.”
PSG’s Response
Earlier on the same day, PSG expressed their approval of the mediation proposal. The club welcomed the opportunity to discuss the matter in a two-hour hearing before the commission. PSG reiterated that Mbappe had made repeated public and private commitments which they believe should be honored. The club highlighted the benefits and support it had provided Mbappe during his seven years in Paris.
“Paris Saint-Germain is very pleased with today’s two-hour hearing before the commission,” PSG stated. “The club recalled that the player has made clear repeated public and private commitments that must be respected, having been afforded unprecedented benefits by the Club over seven fantastic years in Paris.”
Current Situation
The LFP’s commission has invited Mbappe to consider the mediation process. Paris Saint-Germain has been advocating for this step for several months, hoping to reach a resolution that satisfies both parties. Despite the league’s push for mediation, the dispute remains unresolved as both sides prepare for further legal proceedings.
Conclusion
Kylian Mbappe’s decision to reject mediation highlights the ongoing tension between the player and Paris Saint-Germain. As the dispute over unpaid wages and bonuses continues, the involvement of the LFP underscores the seriousness of the situation. Both parties now face the challenge of finding a resolution that addresses the financial and legal issues at hand. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
