Mbappé Made It Clear to Alonso: “I Can’t Stay”
Kylian Mbappé’s imminent departure from Paris Saint-Germain was underlined in a frank conversation with Xabi Alonso this summer, according to reports close to both camps.
During informal talks about a potential future together at Real Madrid—where Alonso has been tipped to take up a prominent role—Mbappé left no room for ambiguity. “I can’t stay,” the French star told Alonso, making his desire for a fresh challenge and a new chapter crystal clear.
Despite PSG’s record-breaking contract offers and last-ditch attempts to convince him to remain in the French capital, Mbappé’s mind was already made up. Sources say he explained that his ambition was to test himself in another league and embrace the next stage of his career at one of Europe’s most storied clubs.
Alonso, renowned for his calm leadership and football intelligence, is believed to have respected Mbappé’s honesty during the exchange. The conversation underscored that, for the 25-year-old World Cup winner, the decision to leave was never about money—it was always about chasing greatness elsewhere.
With Madrid continuing to plan around his arrival, this candid admission only further solidifies that one of the most anticipated transfers in modern football is all but a formality.
