Kylian Mbappe's turbulent start at Real Madrid in October 2024
- Kylian Mbappe has prioritized his club commitments over national team duties, opting for a minibreak instead of joining the France squad.
- He is involved in a legal dispute with PSG regarding unpaid bonuses, which may escalate to a higher court.
- Despite off-field controversies, Mbappe has performed well on the pitch, scoring seven goals in ten starts for Real Madrid.
In October 2024, Kylian Mbappe made headlines by opting for a minibreak rather than joining the France national team, signaling his commitment to Real Madrid. This decision has drawn mixed reactions from fans, as it contrasts with the expectations of national duty. His choice reflects a broader trend among players prioritizing club over country, reminiscent of past controversies involving other players. Simultaneously, Mbappe is embroiled in a legal dispute with his former club, PSG, over an alleged €55 million in unpaid bonuses. His lawyers are set to meet with PSG's legal representatives, and if negotiations fail, the case may escalate to a higher court. This ongoing conflict adds to the scrutiny surrounding his career transition from PSG to Real Madrid. Adding to the complexity of his situation, French prosecutor Marina Chirakova has confirmed an investigation into an alleged rape incident in Stockholm, which may or may not involve Mbappe. He has publicly denied the allegations, suggesting they are part of a smear campaign linked to his legal issues with PSG. Despite these challenges, Mbappe has been performing admirably on the field, scoring seven goals in ten appearances for Real Madrid. His relationship with teammates, particularly Jude Bellingham, has shown promise, indicating that he remains focused on his football amidst the surrounding turmoil.