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January 21, 2025 at 11:19 PM

Mbappé Responds to Neymar: 'I Respect Him'

Kylian Mbappé addresses Neymar's claims about alleged jealousy towards Lionel Messi, emphasizing mutual respect and focusing on his career at Real Madrid.

Mbappé Responds to Neymar: 'I Respect Him'

Kylian Mbappé, now a key player for Real Madrid, has responded diplomatically to comments made by his former teammate Neymar. In a recent interview, Neymar suggested that during their time at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Mbappé exhibited jealousy towards Lionel Messi. The remarks have reignited discussions about reported tensions between the two stars during their stint at the French club.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Real Madrid's upcoming Champions League fixture against Red Bull Salzburg, Mbappé addressed the controversy. "I have nothing negative to say," he stated. "I respect Neymar and cherish the good moments we shared at PSG. My focus now is entirely on Real Madrid and contributing to the success of my team." His calm and professional response highlights his determination to move forward and avoid being drawn into unnecessary disputes.

Mbappé and Neymar were teammates at PSG from 2017 until Neymar's transfer to Al-Hilal in 2023. During their time together, they formed part of a formidable attacking trio alongside Messi, winning numerous domestic titles and reaching the UEFA Champions League final in 2020. Despite their success, reports often surfaced about conflicts within the team, with suggestions that Mbappé and Neymar had differences over their roles and influence.

Kylian Mbappé, Neymar, Lionel Messi - SUP Football

In his interview, Neymar remarked that Messi's arrival at PSG created a dynamic that occasionally led to friction. He described Mbappé as an "ambitious player," but implied that this ambition sometimes created challenges in maintaining harmony within the squad.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Al-Hilal, UEFA Champions League - SUP Football

Mbappé’s response to these comments demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and respect. By refusing to escalate the situation, he has signaled a desire to focus on his current career objectives with Real Madrid, where he has already made a significant impact since joining.

This exchange sheds light on the complexities of managing egos and relationships within elite football squads. As Mbappé continues to excel at Real Madrid, his remarks underline a mature approach to dealing with past controversies while prioritizing his present and future aspirations.