Despite rumours that Kylian Mbappe may wish to join Arsenal, maintains he has no inside information about which team the striker would sign with this summer.
Kylian Mbappe, the 25-year-old’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires at the end of the current campaign, and while he has the option to extend it by one more year, it is anticipated that he will sign a free transfer away from the team.
Enduring admirers Although reports this week suggested Mbappe may be open to heading to the Emirates to pursue the career path of his childhood hero Henry, Real Madrid remains the obvious frontrunner to recruit him.
However, Henry seems surprised by the news and claims not to have discussed his future plans with his young countryman.
Henry retorted, “What are you looking at me for?” when the rumours were brought up during Wednesday night’s Champions League telecast on CBS Sports.
I’m not sure, honestly, not sure. I lack those kinds of insights.
“I’m going to wait and see where he goes like everyone; I don’t [have a hunch].”
Jamie Carragher, a fellow commentator, was stunned by the Mbappe-Arsenal allegations and said, “What?!?” before searching for the stories on his phone.
Although Liverpool has also been rumored to be interested in signing the Frenchman, Carragher believes he already knows where he wants to end up: “Isn’t he heading to Madrid?”
Earlier in the broadcast, Henry hinted that Mbappe’s most likely destination would be Real Madrid, adding, “Where he is going, no-one knows, but everyone thinks it is going to be one place.”
Henry might be able to coach Mbappe at the Olympics this summer, since the attacker is eager to compete for the host country as one of three players who are older than 18.
“I haven’t had a direct conversation with him regarding the Olympics yet,” France Under-23 coach Henry clarified. “I have been contacting players—which I will of course keep confidential—but Kylian has stated on television that he wants to play.” Kylian is a player that everyone would want on their team.
However, he added that it will rely on [his club for the upcoming season]. I must so clarify to the public that as the games do not fall on FIFA dates, clubs are unable to refuse player releases.
Not in the sense of can he, but does he want to? Will his team give him permission to come? The athletes from French teams are, of course, in France for the Olympics. I’m hoping that they’ll let the players go. Teams abroad, who are exempt from sending them, are the issue. That will require some skill.