Kylian Mbappe could become the figurehead of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. According to France’s Sports Minister, Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, the star striker has this time received permission from Paris Saint-Germain to fulfill his Olympic dream. “That is a yes in capital letters,” said the minister opposite RMC Sports†
Mbappe gave top-level contract negotiations a new dimension this year by pitting Real Madrid and PSG against each other. The 23-year-old attacker decided to stay in Paris at the very last minute, but not before (in addition to a huge salary, a record signing sum and extraordinary portrait rights) he had discussed the 2024 Olympics with the owners from Qatar. PSG blocked Mbappe’s participation in the postponed Tokyo Games last year, but has now had to give permission, according to minister Oudéa-Castéra.
“The tournament in his own country is so important for Mbappe that he has discussed it with PSG,” said Oudea-Castera. Because the Olympics are in August, footballers who participate will miss the start of the season at club level, but PSG can live with that. “The club has no problems with that and is not against, but for the Olympic Games ..” Mbappé will then be able to participate as one of the three dispensation players to the country tournament at the Games, which is also for players under 21 years of age.
Oudéa-Castéra beams with happiness when she talks about Mbappé’s participation. “Being on the pitch, playing in our beautiful venues in different cities in France, with so much historical value in football, representing his country at the Olympics in 2024… He has always dreamed of it and he will do so many of us dreams. So that’s a big yes in capital letters,” said the minister, who can imagine the fuss about the huge contract. “It’s huge amounts, but on the other hand