Fayza Lamari’s Influence on Kylian Mbappé’s Career
Fayza Lamari, the mother and agent of French football star Kylian Mbappé, recently revealed that she played a significant role in advising her son to remain with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2022, marking her only direct involvement in his career choices. Despite the overwhelming speculation surrounding his potential transfer to Real Madrid, which finally materialized in June 2024, Lamari’s intervention was crucial during Mbappé’s contract renewal period.
Contract Renewal and External Pressures
At that time, the young forward had the opportunity to leave PSG—following the expiration of his deal—but ultimately opted to sign on for an additional two years. Lamari recounted the intense pressure surrounding that decision during an interview with the French newspaper L’Equipe. She cited various external factors that influenced their choice, including concerns over employee layoffs at PSG, challenges related to television rights contracts, and the allure of the club’s new state-of-the-art training facilities, as well as upcoming major events such as the Olympics and World Cup.
“We were the ones who encouraged him to stay,”
she stated regarding their pivotal advice.
Mbappé’s Achievements and Departure
Fast forward to his eventual departure, Mbappé left PSG as the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, amassing an impressive 255 goals and clinching six Ligue 1 titles over seven seasons. Despite having achieved so much in France, Lamari did caution Kylian prior to his move to Madrid that PSG had a stronger chance of winning the coveted Champions League, a title that eluded him during his tenure there. Just recently, PSG secured their first Champions League victory by defeating Inter Milan, underscoring that contention.
Kylian’s Dream and Future Prospects
Nevertheless, Lamari reflected on her son’s lifelong dream of joining Real Madrid. She fondly recalled how, despite their warnings, Kylian’s youthful exuberance came through when he told them,
“Yeah, I know, but it doesn’t matter, I’m starting from a blank slate.”
Moreover, the 26-year-old made an impressive debut in La Liga, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 31 goals this past season.
Ongoing Development and Motherly Insight
As a World Cup winner from 2018, Mbappé’s progression continues to be closely watched, and even his mother noted that there’s always room for improvement in his game.
“On the pitch, when he plays and doesn’t defend, I also recognize my son,”
Lamari joked, a testament to their close bond and his playful nature that has persisted since he was a child.
