Kylian Mbappé is poised to join Real Madrid. The player has already informed Paris Saint-Germain that he will not renew his contract and will leave the Parc des Princes at the end of the season. However, before making his official debut with the Madrid club, he will have to navigate a complex situation.
The year 2024 is marked by the Eurocopa, taking place in Germany from June 14th to July 14th. Players on teams that go far in the competition – and France is among the favorites – will rejoin their clubs later than others. Of course, vacations are essential too.
Adding to the mix, this year also hosts the Olympic Games, held in Paris from July 24th to August 11th. These dates partially overlap with the Eurocopa and the start of La Liga.
Born in Paris and having played at the top level in the city for the past seasons, Mbappé is highly likely to be selected by the French team for the Olympics.
A matter of national pride
The French newspaper L’Équipe reported a few days ago that the FFF intends to call up Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Raphaël Varane for the Olympics. Mbappé is even a contender to be the country’s flag bearer at the opening ceremony.
It’s important to remember that each country can call up to three players over 21 for the Olympics. However, for this to happen, the player and their club need to reach an agreement.
The Olympics are not under the FIFA umbrella, but fall under the IOC. This means clubs decide whether to release their players or not, with no obligation to do so. Players must negotiate with their paying club.
Mbappé recently stated in French media: “Everyone knows I’ve always dreamed of playing in the Olympics. But it doesn’t depend on me, there are many factors in play.”
Thierry Henry, coach of the French U21 team, added: “Let’s say I want a player and their current club agrees. If he’s transferred in the summer, who says his new club will want to release him? I don’t know where he’ll end up, but the club will have a say. I haven’t contacted him yet.”
Pre-season tour in jeopardy?
The summer will be particularly challenging for major European clubs. A large number of their players will return after the pre-season has already begun. Adding the Olympics to the mix, it will overlap with the start of domestic competitions.
Furthermore, Mbappé’s presence on a pre-season tour could significantly impact and alter the revenue of his future club. Touring the US with or without the French star are two different prospects.
According to the newspaper As, Real Madrid earned 12 and 15 million euros in their last two summer tours playing four matches. With Mbappé, this figure could considerably increase. A real headache for the Madrid club.
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