France captain Kylian Mbappe has announced he will not participate in the Paris Olympics 2024. At a press conference during the Euros, the star footballer explained that his new club, Real Madrid, opposed the idea. Despite expressing his desire to play in the Olympics in March, Mbappe, 25, acknowledged the tournament’s timing poses a risk of injury during the off-season, and it is not on FIFA’s official calendar.
🚨🗣️ Kylian Mbappé: “The Olympics? My club has made their decision clear, and I understand it. I won’t play.” pic.twitter.com/joawH0kBGQ
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) June 16, 2024
Kylian Mbappe To Respect Real Madrid’s Decision
Earlier this month, Mbappe was omitted from a 25-man preliminary Olympic squad, although head coach Thierry Henry had suggested there was still a possibility for his inclusion. The men’s Olympic football competition is set to start on July 24, just 10 days after the European Championships final, and will conclude on August 9.
Mbappe’s transfer to Real Madrid ended years of speculation. His move marks a significant moment in football, as elite players rarely change clubs at their peak. Mbappe left Paris Saint-Germain for the Spanish giants after a prolonged pursuit by Real Madrid, which began years ago. Although he renewed his contract with PSG in 2022, Real Madrid made another offer in January 2024, including a substantial bonus of nearly 150 million euros.
The transfer was finalized after Real Madrid’s Champions League victory on June 1, 2024, with the official announcement on June 3, 2024. Mbappe expressed his excitement and pride in joining his “dream club,” thanking fans for their support. This transfer significantly impacts Mbappe, Real Madrid, and PSG.
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