Former PSG boss reveals Mbappe always carried the dream of Real Madrid – ‘His eyes lit up for them’ | OneFootball

Former Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has shed light on Kylian Mbappe’s long-held desire to play for Real Madrid.

The Argentine coach, who managed the French superstar during his spell at PSG, revealed that the forward had always dreamed of wearing the white shirt of Los Blancos – even during his own reign in Paris.

Speaking on El Chiringuito TV, Pochettino recalled how he and Mbappe dealt with the constant rumours linking him with a move to Madrid in the summer of 2021.

Difficult period for Mbappe

At the time, speculation was at its peak, with Real Madrid going as far as making a massive €200 million bid for the then-22-year-old.

Despite the offer, the move did not materialise, and Mbappe went on to renew his contract with PSG.

Pochettino shared the emotional side of that summer, admitting the situation was far from simple.

“It was a difficult time for Kylian because, as a child, he always dreamed of playing for Madrid. I knew that because my relationship with Kylian is very good.

Pochettino coached Mbappe during his time with PSG. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“For me, he’s a great guy, but going after your dream meant breaking a promise or going back on your word,” explained the Argentine.

Balancing PSG’s interests with Mbappe’s dream

Reflecting further, Pochettino opened up about the delicate balance he faced as PSG coach while knowing Mbappe’s true aspirations.

“It wasn’t easy. I couldn’t go against my interests. I was the coach of PSG, but at the same time, you see a kid whose eyes light up for another club. That’s always very difficult.

“I always had the same conversation with him, and I was loyal to my club and my values. In the end, he stayed in Paris as long as I did, and then he fulfilled his dream.”

The Argentine also praised Mbappe’s leadership qualities, making clear that the forward carries himself differently compared to other stars he shared a dressing room with at PSG.

“Mbappe is a leader, but he’s a different kind of leader than Neymar, Sergio Ramos, or Messi. Each one has his own leadership characteristics,” he concluded.