Paris Saint-Germain’s final UEFA Champions League group stage matchday could have much riding on the line. The capital club will travel to Germany to face Borussia Dortmund with a straightforward task: Win to advance and possibly keep Kylian Mbappé.
After the 1-1 draw against Newcastle United on Tuesday night at the Parc des Princes, the Parisians still control their destiny. However, it’s a daunting challenge, as they need a road win to advance to the round of 16.
PSG has yet to secure a victory away from home, so it might explain why there’s doubt or cautious optimism within the fanbase. Still, not winning won’t mean saying goodbye to the Champions League. They could also be losing Mbappé.
Le Parisien journalist weighs in on the future of Kylian Mbappé
During a question-and-answer session, Le Parisien journalist Laurent Perrin confirmed that the Champions League and PSG’s performance in the competition would dictate the 24-year-old’s decision.
“Yes, I really think so,” Perrin said (h/t Le10Sport). “It is not a question of money but a question of project and results. Mbappé will turn 25 in three weeks. He has no time to waste to win the two trophies he is missing: the Champions League and the Ballon d’Or.
“If PSG can lead him to the European title, there may be a slight chance that he will stay. But he knows and has already said it, that Ligue 1 is an obstacle to his Ballon d’Or dreams.
“In my opinion, if PSG does not reach the Champions League final this year, there is no reason for them to stay. And therefore, there is no reason for him to extend before the outcome of the Champions League.”
Mbappé reportedly wants to bring the Champions League to his hometown, and it would mean more to him than winning the trophy elsewhere. Nonetheless, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner must decide whether to stay or leave soon.
