<a href="https://time.news/real-madrid-is-exploiting-singer-taylor-swift-in-the-mbappe-deal/" title="Real Madrid is exploiting singer Taylor Swift in the Mbappe deal”>Paris Saint-Germain has submitted a request to discuss the financial dispute with Kylian Mbappé before the executive committee of the French Football Federation (FFF), following decisions in favor of the player before the Professional Football League (LFP), the AFP has learned from a source close to the matter.
Seized by the striker, who is demanding €55 million in unpaid wages and other bonuses from the capital club, the LFP’s legal commission recommended mediation in September. But, faced with the player’s refusal, he immediately decided to ask PSG to pay this sum within a week.
PSG then lodged an appeal, which was heard in mid-October and which confirmed the first decision, condemning the club to pay the €55 million, which PSG immediately refused to do.
Two possible appeals to the Labor Court
Faced with a possible appeal by Kylian Mbappé before the labor court, PSG had two final appeals before the football authorities: submit a request to raise the dispute before the executive committee of the FFF, then an appeal before an administrative court with a view to conciliation before the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF).
The request to the FFF was submitted last week. “It is being processed” and could potentially be rejected, the aforementioned source indicated. A source close to the club’s management recently told AFP that PSG will use these remedies “as a matter of principle”, instead expecting the matter to be taken to the employment tribunal in a long-term procedure.
The conflict originates in the state of an agreement reached in August 2023 between the striker and the club’s management. The French team captain was later kicked out of the team for refusing to extend his contract with PSG. This extension would have ensured the club would receive money from a transfer while Mbappé would finally sign up for free this summer at Real Madrid.
In the agreement the player committed to giving up 55 million among various bonuses if he were to leave free at the end of the season. But the validity of this agreement, which the player himself spoke about publicly to journalists in January, is contested by the star’s camp.
Interview: Time.news Editor Meets Football Finance Expert on the Mbappé vs. PSG Saga
Editor (E): Welcome to our interview today. We have a special guest, Dr. Marie Lefevre, an expert in sports finance and contracts, to shed some light on the ongoing financial dispute between Kylian Mbappé and Paris Saint-Germain. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Lefevre.
Marie Lefevre (ML): Thank you for having me. I’m excited to talk about this significant issue in football.
E: Let’s dive right in. We recently learned that PSG has requested a meeting with the French Football Federation’s executive committee regarding the ongoing situation with Mbappé. What do you make of this move?
ML: Well, this request hints at PSG’s desire to resolve the issue diplomatically, possibly hoping for an outcome that is more favorable to them. It indicates that the club is not just willing to accept the Legal Commission’s decision from the LFP, which ordered them to pay the €55 million to Mbappé.
E: Indeed. Mbappé is demanding back wages and bonuses totaling €55 million. Why do you think he is pursuing this so vigorously?
ML: Mbappé’s insistence on claiming this amount reflects the broader issues at play, including the importance of financial stability for players in an industry often criticized for its economic disparities. It also signals to other players that they should stand firm in their financial negotiations, as the sums involved can be astronomical.
E: The LFP recommended mediation, but since Mbappé rejected it, the pathway seems blocked. Can you explain the implications of his refusal?
ML: By refusing mediation, Mbappé is likely signaling his seriousness about the claim and his unwillingness to compromise. Mediation can often lead to a resolution that avoids lengthy legal battles, but it appears Mbappé feels strongly justified in his demands and perhaps doesn’t see mediation as a credible pathway to securing what he is owed.
E: PSG is now appealing the LFP’s decision. What could be the potential outcomes of these appeals, especially considering they have already lost in previous hearings?
ML: PSG’s appeal could go in a few directions. They might seek a reduction in the amount owed or challenge the process by which the LFP reached its decision. However, given that they’ve already been condemned to pay the €55 million, they might face an uphill battle. If they lose again, it’ll likely put even more pressure on them to pay the amount.
E: Are there any repercussions for PSG if they continue to refuse to pay? Could this escalate to labor court proceedings?
ML: Absolutely. If PSG continues to reject payment, Mbappé can escalate the matter to the labor court, which could impose legal repercussions, including enforced payment. This could tarnish PSG’s reputation and may even affect their future dealings with players as trust could be undermined.
E: It seems we’re at a critical juncture in this saga. What do you predict will happen next?
ML: Given the stakes, I believe something has to give soon. PSG might be compelled to negotiate a settlement to avoid court, which could involve reducing the total amount owed but still ensuring some payment is made. For Mbappé, it’s vital to maintain his standing and ensure that his rights as a player are respected.
E: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Lefevre. This situation illustrates not only the financial complexities of modern football but also the importance of player rights in the sport.
ML: Thank you for having me. It’s certainly a fascinating topic, and I look forward to seeing how this plays out in the coming months.
E: And to our readers, stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops. Thank you for joining us!