Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is facing legal action from its former star player Kylian Mbappé, who has accused the Ligue 1 club of moral harassment, the Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed on Thursday. Mbappé’s complaint also involves a claim for 55 million euros ($61 million) in unpaid wages.
The Paris prosecutor’s office stated that Mbappé is “denouncing the ‘lofting’ he claimed to have been subjected to at Paris Saint-Germain.” The term “lofting” in France refers to isolating a player from the main squad for sporting, administrative, or disciplinary reasons.
Breakdown in Relations and Contract Disputes
Mbappé left PSG last summer on a free transfer to Real Madrid after scoring a club-record 256 goals during his seven years with the French club. PSG went on to win the UEFA Champions League this year without Mbappé.
The France captain’s relationship with PSG ended amid tensions. Some PSG fans booed Mbappé during his last home game at Parc des Princes. The club reportedly felt let down by the player, especially after offering him the most lucrative contract in PSG’s history in 2022.
Mbappé’s frustrations stemmed from what he considered unmet promises, including the signing of key players. When signing the contract, he was publicly presented with a jersey featuring the year 2025, but the contract was set to expire in 2024, with a player option for an additional year. In June 2023, Mbappé surprised PSG by announcing he would not exercise this option, effectively signaling his intent to leave.
Isolation and Exclusion Following Contract Decision
Following Mbappé’s decision not to extend his contract, PSG excluded him from a preseason tour in Japan and South Korea and relegated him to training with fringe players. PSG stated it preferred to sell Mbappé rather than lose him on a free transfer in 2024, but Mbappé rejected a 300 million euro transfer offer to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal.
The club left him out of the opening Ligue 1 game for the 2023-24 season, but discussions between the player and the club soon led to his reintegration.
Legal Action for Alleged Harassment
In April, Kylian Mbappé’s legal team announced their intention to take legal action against PSG for harassment regarding his treatment during this period. The claim highlights issues around his exclusion and treatment while sidelined at the club.
