In a significant development, French football star Kylian Mbappe has turned down a mediation proposal from Ligue 1's legal commission regarding his ongoing dispute with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The conflict centers around approximately €55 million (around $60.5 million) in unpaid salaries spanning three months, along with the final third of his loyalty bonus.
Mbappe transitioned to Real Madrid as a free agent this summer, but tensions remain high as he asserts that PSG still owes him substantial earnings. The player's side initially sought the commission's intervention, with his representative engaging in discussions with PSG officials in Paris.
In a statement, Mbappe's representatives emphasized the futility of mediation, arguing that the lack of payment is evident through a straightforward analysis of his payslip. They stated, \"This possibility was rejected during the meeting by the player's representative. A mediation would be useless to record a lack of payment that would be seen from a simple analysis of the player's payslip.\"
Responding to the rejection, a PSG spokesperson noted that Mbappe was informed about the mediation process but highlighted that an agreement prior to the 2023-24 season allegedly required Mbappe to forgo certain bonuses tied to his reintegration into the team. During this period, Mbappe was sidelined after deciding not to extend his contract with PSG.
Mbappe's tenure at PSG has been remarkable, amassing 256 goals and 108 assists in 308 appearances over seven years. His contributions were pivotal in securing six Ligue 1 titles and four Coupe de France trophies, among other honors. Despite his on-field success, the departure this summer was marked by discord, with PSG expressing disappointment over his decision to leave following a record-breaking contract in 2022. Mbappe voiced frustrations over what he perceived as the club's failure to retain key players, impacting the team's competitiveness.
With mediation now off the table, the resolution of this financial impasse may proceed to employment court, leaving fans and stakeholders keenly watching the next steps in this high-profile dispute.
Reference(s):
Mbappe rejects mediation offer in $60 million dispute with PSG
cgtn.com
