Paris Saint-Germain’s star-studded front three could soon be consigned to the history books. Lionel Messi, Neymar Junior and Kylian Mbappe may have their days numbered as an attacking trio.
The French club are making plans for next season, following yet another disappointing campaign at the continental level. The future of head coach Cristophe Galtier is in doubt and so too that of the iconic forward line.
The idea the Parisians are leaning towards at the moment is a change of direction, a new look, a distinct identity. Their ‘Galactico’ era hasn’t brought success, so the time has come to freshen things up and try something new.
The plan is to build a new team of young French talent, led by Mbappe, who embodies the best of the domestic product. This change of course to invest in young and rising talent mirrors Real Madrid’s change in policy in recent years.
The French club also want to grow a greater sense of identity and a connection between team and fans. A more sustainable financial approach, coupled with a greater French presence in the squad, could help.
Messi on the way out
PSG would like Messi to stay another year, but not at any price and, as things stand, both sides are very far apart. For his part, the player is open to returning to Barcelona, should that be a viable option.
Neymar, a complicated sale
Meanwhile, the club consider that Neymar‘s Parisian chapter has come to an end and they are keen to shift him as they do not see him as part of the club’s future. However, with a lucrative contract running until 2027, that will not be an easy operation.
Mbappe the priority
The member of the star trio most likely to stay – and most wanted by the club – is Mbappe, despite the tensions between player and organisation in recent times. The player has two years to run on his current deal, meaning that next summer he could choose to run down the final year and leave on a free in 2025.
PSG see Mbappe as their franchise player, as the face of their present and future, but they still need to convince him he can fulfil his ambitions at the club. Mbappe wants to win the Champions League and will need to be persuaded that he can do that at PSG.
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In France, much of the media seems to agree that the club is happy to let Messi walk this summer and also wants to move Neymar on. There is also recognition that the latter will not be possible.
Some do believe, however, that Qatar would like to retain Messi because of the value of his image and association. The most likely, as things stand, is that next season both Mbappe and Neymar remain in Paris, as Neymar will be too difficult to sell and Messi too difficult to keep.
SRC: https://www.marca.com/
