Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique has branded reports that Kylian Mbappé insulted him after the France forward was substituted in Sunday’s league win at Marseille as “a lie.”
Mbappé looked serious as he walked off the pitch after being replaced in the 65th minute of his team’s 2-0 triumph in Le Classique and appeared to utter some words which some on social media interpreted as insults.
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“The curious thing is that everything that is generated from a lie is what happens in the world of football,” Luis Enrique said when asked about Mbappé’s reaction to being substituted. “One has invented an insult and speculations of all kinds have arisen.”
Mbappé has played only one full game in PSG’s last seven Ligue 1 matches, with Luis Enrique repeatedly benching his star player since his decision to leave the club went public in February.
Sources have told ESPN that he is expected to join Real Madrid this summer once his contract with PSG expires, with talks still ongoing.
Mbappé posted a photograph on Instagram of himself walking off the pitch against Marseille with his head down while holding the captain’s armband in his right hand.
There was no message on the Instagram post.
Luis Enrique, who believes Mbappé “could change his mind” and remain at PSG next season, said he is pleased with the player’s “attitude.”
“After the games it is a complicated moment, I feel very tired,” Luis Enrique said. “But I am very happy with all the players, including Kylian. He has a sensational attitude.”