Kylian Mbappé Withdraws Legal Action Against PSG
Kylian Mbappé has officially withdrawn the legal action he initiated against Paris Saint-Germain earlier this year, according to a source familiar with the matter who spoke to the Associated Press. The situation began when, in a legal complaint filed last month, Mbappé alleged moral harassment by the club, prompting an investigation by the Paris prosecutor’s office.
Motivation Behind the Withdrawal
The decision to terminate the legal proceedings appears to be motivated by Mbappé’s wish to mend relations with PSG, the source noted. However, this development does not affect his ongoing claim for €55 million (approximately $61 million) in unpaid wages, which is being processed through an industrial tribunal.
Accusations of Moral Harassment
Earlier this spring, Mbappé publicly accused PSG of moral harassment, bringing to light a practice known in France as “lofting”. This term describes the tactic of sidelining a player from the main squad for various reasons. He expressed discontent regarding his treatment when he was excluded from participation just before the start of the 2023-24 season due to his reluctance to extend his contract with the team.
Improving Relations with PSG
Despite previous tensions, it has been reported that Mbappé’s relationship with PSG president Nasser Al Khelaïfi has improved over recent weeks. After making history as PSG’s all-time top scorer with 256 goals over seven seasons, the talented forward made the news earlier this summer by leaving for Real Madrid on a free transfer.
Upcoming Challenges
As he prepares to confront PSG in the upcoming Club World Cup semifinal, it’s worth noting that his exit from the French club was marked by considerable strife, including a less-than-warm farewell from some fans during his last game at Parc des Princes. Many felt betrayed after PSG provided him with a record-breaking contract in 2022, only for him to later indicate he would not exercise the option for an additional year, thereby creating tension around a possible transfer.
Pre-Season Exclusion and Reintegration
Following that revelation, PSG opted to exclude him from pre-season tours in Japan and South Korea, leading to awkward training sessions with less prominent squad members. Although PSG expressed a preference to sell Mbappé rather than allow him to leave for free, he declined a lucrative €300 million offer from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal. After discussions, he was eventually reintegrated into the squad for the opening match of the season.
