The long-standing conflict between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Kylian Mbappé has now escalated into a legal battle that is making waves across the football world. Both parties are now seeking astronomical compensation from one another, marking what could become one of the most significant legal disputes in football history.
Mbappé claims that his contract should have been reclassified as a permanent deal, and on that basis, he is now demanding €260 million (approximately $301 million or ₹3,720 crore) in damages. The claim includes unpaid wages, bonuses, severance pay, unjust termination compensation, and allegations of mental harassment.
Earlier, Mbappé had claimed a more modest €55 million for outstanding wages, but this latest demand represents a much larger sum.
PSG’s Counterclaim: A Massive €440 Million
In retaliation, PSG is counterclaiming with an even larger demand, seeking €440 million (around $510 million, or ₹6,240 crore) from Mbappé. PSG argues that Mbappé’s departure on a free transfer caused them to lose out on transfer fees, that he rejected a €300 million offer from Al Hilal, and that his actions have led to breach of contract, bad conduct, and damaged the club’s reputation.
PSG states that Mbappé kept his decision not to renew his contract hidden for almost 11 months, preventing the club from seeking a transfer. They also claim that the salary reduction agreement, which was made in late 2023, was later rejected by Mbappé.
The Legal Battle Now in French Courts
This high-profile legal case is now in the hands of the French courts, and the final ruling is expected to be delivered next month. Mbappé’s legal team has argued that he is merely asserting his legal rights and that his exclusion from the pre-season preparations was a form of moral harassment.
After refusing to extend his contract with PSG at the start of the 2023-24 season, Mbappé was initially excluded from the pre-season training camp. However, following negotiations, he returned to the squad, although the relationship was never quite the same. By summer 2024, Mbappé left PSG on a free transfer to join Real Madrid after seven years with PSG, during which he scored 256 goals for the club.
This legal battle is now one of the most controversial and high-profile cases in football, with both sides making eye-watering demands. The final verdict from the courts could change the trajectory of not only Mbappé’s career but also PSG’s future plans.