Luis Enrique provides cryptic update on Kylian Mbappe’s future after benching striker again

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has wished Kylian Mbappe ‘the best’ ahead of his impending departure from the Ligue 1 club.

Mbappe confirmed to the club that he will not be taking up an option to extend his contract at PSG beyond the current season, paving the way for a long-anticipated move to Real Madrid. Reports have suggested that the forward has agreed to a five-year deal at the Santiago Bernabeu – a deal in which he’ll €15m per year and receive a whopping €150m signing-on bonus to be paid over five years.

Since news broke of Mbappe’s intention to leave PSG, manager Enrique has used the forward noticeably sporadically. Mbappe has not played a full 90 minutes since February 2 and was given just 17 minutes against Stade Reims on Sunday, despite needing a goal.

Speaking to Prime Video Sport after the 2-2 draw, Enrique was expectedly asked about his management of Mbappe, and he added more fuel to the fire of an impending summer exit.

“Until there is an official statement from both parties, I will stand by my position,” Enrique said. “In his case I have no doubt, just wish him the best.”

Mbappe came off the bench at the weekend / Jean Catuffe/GettyImages

Enrique’s comments come after previously insisting that the club must begin to plan for life without Mbappe in the starting lineup.

“I have been in football long enough, you should know that everything is important in this kind of club,” Enrique said. “Sooner or later, we will play without Mbappe so I’m looking for the best option for the team.”

The boss added: “Sometimes I’m right, sometimes I’m wrong. We need to get used to it [playing without Mbappe]. I will do what is best for my team. I don’t want to create controversy, it’s my decision.”

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