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Leonardo Criticizes PSG’s Handling of Mbappé’s Contract Situation
Leonardo Speaks Out: Insights on Mbappé’s Departure from PSG
Paris, November 2024 – Former Paris Saint-Germain sporting director, Leonardo, has made a rare public statement about the departure of Kylian Mbappé, who left PSG as a free agent this past summer. Leonardo, who served as the club’s director during two different tenures, shared his candid views on the situation in an interview.
Leonardo’s perspective on Mbappé’s contract saga
Leonardo was closely involved in the Mbappé contract extension saga, which concluded at the end of the 2021-2022 season. Despite his involvement, he was dismissed from his position shortly after the new contract was finalized.
In a conversation with the media, Leonardo revealed his opposition to the contract renewal, arguing that it granted excessive power to one player. “I was against it from the outset. I even believed that he should have been sold at the end of the 2020-2021 season when Real Madrid made an offer and he had a year left on his contract,” he stated. He expressed concerns about the implications of losing a player without compensation, emphasizing that no club is irreplaceable, saying, “If you lose a player, it’s unfortunate, but the club will not die.”
Reflections on his time at PSG
Leonardo also ruled out the possibility of returning to PSG, despite his deep connection to the club. “My history with Paris is untouchable. This isn’t to open any doors; it’s my heart speaking,” he remarked. He acknowledged that returning for a fourth stint might be excessive and suggested that his time in France, particularly in a directorial capacity, might have concluded.
Leonardo’s comments shed light on the dynamic and often challenging world of football management, where decisions about player contracts can have lasting impacts on a club’s trajectory.