Messi joined PSG in 2021 on a free transfer from Barcelona with many expectations. Despite winning Ligue 1 twice, the 35-year-old striker struggled and could not adapt to life in Paris.

It is worth mentioning that Messi is always booed and mocked by PSG fans after the team’s failures in the Champions League.

Therefore, Messi decided to refuse to extend his contract with PSG and is about to join Inter Miami in the American Professional Soccer League (MLS). Witnessing the departure of his senior, Mbappe spoke up to defend him and said that the Argentine superstar deserved more respect.

“We are talking about possibly the best player in football history,” Mbappe shared in Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport. “It’s not good news when a player like Messi leaves”.

“Personally, I don’t really understand why so many people were relieved when Messi left. We’re talking about Messi, he should be respected – but instead, he doesn’t get the respect he deserves. in France. It’s a pity, but that’s the way things are. We have to find the most effective way to replace him.”

Mbappe also said he had never asked PSG to allow him to move to Real Madrid this summer, and confirmed that he was very happy to play in Paris next season but would not renew his contract with the club. club.

Mbappe shocked when he sent a letter to PSG stating that he had no intention of extending his contract, the striker’s contract will expire in 2024 unless the 12-month extension clause is activated.

PSG is facing the risk of losing Mbappe completely on a free transfer in June 2024. Mbappe will also be free to negotiate a contract with a new club from January 2024 if he decides to only stick with PSG until the end of his current contract.

“I didn’t ask to leave or move to Real Madrid,” Mbappe said. “I just confirm that I do not want to activate the contract extension clause in the terms. We have never talked about extending the contract with PSG, but I am happy to stay here next season”.

According to ESPN, Real Madrid is willing to spend money to recruit Mbappe in this summer transfer window. Meanwhile, PSG is ready to sit at the negotiating table if any team offers 150 million euros to the French captain.

Real Madrid has hunted Mbappe many times in the past but failed. The striker signed a contract extension with PSG last May. However, the giant of Spanish football is entering a period of reconstruction when key striker Karim Benzema left and Mbappe is considered the most worthy successor.