PSG Boss Enrique Speaks Out on Mbappe Antics In Monaco

Luis Enrique responded to Kylian Mbappe’s actions during halftime at Monaco, but he denied that he was disciplining the Paris Saint-Germain player.

At halftime, the Spanish coach took Mbappe out of the game and replaced him with Randal Kolo Muani. This was the second time in a row that the French sensation was substituted with the score tied. After being replaced, Mbappe was spotted lounging in the stands rather than on the bench with his teammates. Following the match, Luis Enrique refuted rumours that he and Mbappe were at odds.

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After the game, the coach told reporters: “Is this a punishment for Mbappe? My answer is the one I gave. Sooner or later, we have to that we get used to playing without him. It’s my philosophy to think about what’s best for the team. I don’t want to argue. It’s my decision.”

It was understandable to raise eyebrows when Mbappe was substituted early in the game; it is deemed unusual to do it twice. It makes sense that Luis Enrique would only want players who are fully devoted to the squad playing for him, given Mbappe is expected to depart PSG and go with Real Madrid in the summer. Whether or not it qualifies as a punishment is debatable.

As the coach stated, he must have his team ready to play without Mbappe. Any team would be devastated to lose one of the greatest players in the world, therefore PSG needs to be prepared to replace the Frenchman with current players or by making a trade. Mbappe will not be present in any case.