Luis Enrique has insisted Paris Saint-Germain will be a stronger team next season despite losing Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer.
After months of speculation, football’s worst-kept secret was revealed on Friday evening when Mbappe confirmed he will leave PSG upon the expiry of his contract this summer.
While losing Mbappe on a free transfer would appear to be a huge financial blow, PSG have long protected themselves with a legal agreement with the Frenchman that will see them recover a huge loyalty bonus paid to him, With his huge wages also off the books as well, PSG are estimated to be saving around €225m.
PSG are prepared to invest a large majority of that sum in the playing squad this summer and Enrique expects the French side to look significantly stronger by the time the new season arrives.
“I’m convinced that, regardless of the players who are here, I’m convinced that next season we will be stronger, that’s how I see things,” he stressed.
“Despite the fact that people often wanted to confront us, and the fact that Kylian denied things, all I can say is that he is a wonderful footballer and a wonderful person. I understand his decision, he spent seven years here, he always gave everything for the club, and the club gave him everything. I wish him the best. He still hasn’t said where he’s going even though it’s clear to everyone.
“I don’t complain about Kylian on any level. It’s always been the case, he’s a leader. PSG will continue to be a great team. We want to recruit players who are hungry, who want to identify with the club, but I am very proud to have experienced this season with Kylian Mbappe.”
Mbappe is expected to sign on with Real Madrid this summer, adding to an attacking unit which already includes Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham and fellow new face Endrick.
Despite that surplus of talent, Enrique expects Mbappe to find a way to stand out.
“Kylian is a great footballer, someone close to you, optimistic, who always has a smile,” Enrique said. “He is prepared for whatever happens to him. I give him 10/10 as a person and 10/10 as a footballer.”
90min understands PSG have considered moves for Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen as potential replacements for Mbappe, while reports elsewhere have named the likes of Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as targets.