PSG FW Kylian Mbappe
Every list needs a little Kylian Mbappe. Signing the PSG superstar seems to be a more and more difficult operation for Real Madrid with each passing month, because there are now so many factors that make it more likely for Mbappe to stay in Paris.
Firstly, PSG have been outperforming Real Madrid in the Champions League. Plain and simple.
Secondly, Mauricio Pochettino’s appointment has the potential to spark a change that leads Mbappe to stay, since a rocky relationship with Thomas Tuchel was often cited as a key reason for a departure to Real.
And thirdly, the finances. PSG have all the money, Real have very little, which means they’d have to hope to sign him in 2022 for free if they cannot cobble together a package deal to the Parisian’s liking. And who is to say PSG will want to sell their most valuable player at any price? Mbappe is their building block, much like Los Blancos dream of him being their centerpiece player at the new Santiago Bernabeu.
Mbappe has never averaged fewer than 1.37 goals and assists per 90 minutes in the last three seasons, and he is currently averaging a career-high 1.77 goal contributions per 90 this season. That’s mind-blowing, and you can say what you want about Ligue 1, but go find that kind of production from a wide forward. You can’t. That Mbappe is 22 and rises to the occasion despite intense scrutiny from faceless “fans” who wish to tear him down is additionally exceptional.
I’ve seen polls where Madridistas state that Erling Haaland is a bigger priority than Kylian Mbappe. And to that I say, “Um, what?” Haaland is a great player, but, seriously, don’t overthink this.