The President of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Qatari businessman Nasser Al-Khelaifi, has stated that former forward Kylian Mbappé called to congratulate the club after winning the UEFA Champions League football tournament. On Saturday night, PSG defeated Italy’s Inter Milan 5-0 to claim the trophy, marking the first time the team has won Europe’s most prestigious tournament. Mbappé, currently considered one of the world’s best forwards, left PSG for Real Madrid at the end of last season. He left PSG in pursuit of winning the Champions League, believing it might not be possible with the French club.
However, Al-Khelaifi said that Mbappé called to congratulate before the trophy was even won. “Yes, he called me to congratulate. I wish him success too. He chose a completely different path to achieve success. We are going on a different path,” Al-Khelaifi said. Following PSG’s victory, French President Emmanuel Macron has warmly congratulated the team and even hosted a special celebration for the team at the presidential palace.
Al-Khelaifi also mentioned that Mbappé said the Ballon d’Or, given to Europe and the world’s best player this season, should go to PSG’s French forward Ousmane Dembélé. Al-Khelaifi expressed that he is very proud of PSG’s success and acknowledges the contribution of great players who previously played for the club.
“I’m saying this with complete honesty. I thank all the players who signed to play for our club. They played an important role in this project even if they are not with the club today. This includes former captain Thiago Silva, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Edinson Cavani, Thiago Motta, Angel Di Maria, and others. I also thank Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Mbappé for their service to this club,” Al-Khelaifi said.
He stated that PSG’s success is due to stopping the purchase of expensive star players and instead investing in young players. He added that the club will continue to move forward in this manner.
