New Manchester United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe claims the club will change its transfer market policy heading into the summer. The British billionaire recently purchased just over 27% of the club for around $1.6 billion. Despite only becoming a minority owner, the deal gives Ratcliffe sporting control of the team.



As a result, much of the transfer business at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a> will be led by the billionaire and his company. Before Ratcliffe’s arrival, the club had a recent history of bringing in high-priced established stars. This includes huge deals to sign Casemiro, Antony, Harry Maguire, Jadon Sancho, and Raphael Varane. 



However, a vast majority of these particular moves have not exactly panned out. Because of this, Ratcliffe wants to make changes to the team. The businessman believes that United can be better served by developing young talent rather than splashing cash on marquee signings.



<h2>Billionaire wants to shift transfer market focus to bring United young stars</h2>



Ratcliffe discussed the upcoming change in approach during an appearance on the Geraint Thomas Cycling Club podcast. The billionaire was initially asked if he would attempt to sign <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> superstar Jude Bellingham in the near future. “He is a great footballer. It’s not where our focus is; the solution isn’t spending a lot of money on a couple of great players,” <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/mar/19/sir-jim-ratcliffe-rules-out-manchester-united-spending-big-on-couple-of-great-players-arteta-100000-capacity-stadium" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">replied</a> Ratcliffe.



“[United has] done that, if you look at the last 10 years, they have spent a lot of money on a couple of great players. The first thing we need to do is get the right people in the right boxes who are managing and organizing the club. And make sure we get recruitment right, it is such a vital part of football today.”



The new co-owner of the club then insisted that he would rather find the next Bellingham or Kylian Mbappe rather than spend nine figures on the actual superstars. “I would rather sign the next Mbappé rather than spend a fortune buying success,” continued the billionaire. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240319_WST_495744_Mbappe-United-1200x670_1bb64991.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-495786" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-United-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-United-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-United-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-United.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



“It’s not that clever buying Mbappé. Anyone could figure that one out. More challenging is to find the next Mbappé or next Bellingham or next Roy Keane.”



The podcast hosts then went on to ask Ratcliffe which club he would rather see win the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> title this season. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/liverpool-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a>, and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-city-tv-schedule/">Manchester City</a> are currently fighting it out for the trophy. The businessman initially joked about hating the trio of rivals but eventually claimed that he would pick Arsenal if he had to.



“It would be good for Arteta actually,” stated Ratcliffe. “It would be good for him because he’s done really well and Arsenal have been patient with him, which is nice as well.”



<h2>United currently has the highest wage bill in English top flight</h2>



Ratcliffe’s comments on the club’s upcoming transfer policy could be seen as worrisome to some fans. After all, top teams across the continent are somewhat expected to make massive signings to improve their squads. Nevertheless, the billionaire is correct in his assessment regarding United’s recent strategy. The Red Devils have spent a fortune on big-name players and few of these deals have worked out.



Along with these established stars garnering massive transfer fees, they also attract huge contracts. In fact, despite their disappointing position in the table, United currently has the <a href="https://www.planetfootball.com/quick-reads/premier-league-wage-bill-ranking-2023-24-man-utd-liverpool-arsenal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">highest player salaries</a> in the entire Premier League. The club could certainly benefit from lowering this wage scale.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Ratcliffe claims United will exercise caution in transfer market

New Manchester United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe claims the club will change its transfer market policy heading into the summer.

While Arsenal’s supporters fret about the club’s future in their pursuit of the Premier League crown, rumors of potential transfers abound.



Competition for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/kylian-mbappe/euro-or-olympics-madrid-set-to-dash-mbappes-summer-plans/">Kylian Mbappe</a>‘s signing has intensified since he announced last summer that he won’t stay at Parc des Princes. The Gunners have been a contender, keeping pace with the greatest clubs in Europe right now.



Since he has declined to sign a new contract, the 25-year-old is practically ready to leave Parc des Princes. Supposedly, he has already spoken with Real Madrid and agreed to a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-demands-brother-to-join-him-at-madrid-whats-next-20240228-WST-492011.html">$16.5 million annual salary in Spain</a>.



Regardless, some non-Spanish media bring up other clubs as potential destinations, such as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/liverpool-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a> and Arsenal. Even while they may not be as big as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a>, the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> heavyweights still have a chance to entice the Frenchman with English soccer.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a> legend Thierry Henry is a renowned French great, and Mbappe is reportedly interested in mimicking his career. 



There is a lot of comparison between the two because of how they both started off at Monaco and their similar playing styles.



What’s more, manager Mikel Arteta hinted at a potential transfer to the Emirates last month. 



Thus, the 2018 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/womens-world-cup-tv-schedule/">World Cup</a> champion has since been linked with a shock switch to North London. “If we want to be the best team, then you need to have the best players, that’s for sure. The club that we are, I don’t think that’s ever been an issue. Everyone wants to play for Arsenal”, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-liverpool-out-of-race-another-rival-opens-door-20240217-WST-490214.html">the Spanish coach said</a>.



<h2>What did Kylian Mbappe say about possible Arsenal move?</h2>



<a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/kylian-mbappe-psg-real-madrid-champions-league-b2491654.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Independent</a> even hinted in February that Mbappe might be eager to join. That is if the Premier League team can meet his wage demands in any way. However, the player put a stop to that fantasy this week.



When a fan pleaded with the 25-year-old to think about joining Arsenal in a video that went viral on social media, his reaction left no space for debate. 



With a chuck, Mbappe laughed off the prospect of moving to the Gunners and joked about how bad the weather would be.



An aspiring Gunners fan named Mikey Poulli recently had a meeting with Mbappe in Paris and posted a <a href="https://twitter.com/mikeypoulli/status/1768929944451657798" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brief video of their chat online</a>. Mikey first tells Mbappe, “Come to Arsenal,” near the beginning of the video. “We’ll look after you.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNFC/status/1768970987213656492" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="589" height="702" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240317_WST_495492_image-14_721a7331.webp&amp;width=589&amp;height=702" alt="" class="wp-image-495510" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/image-14.png 589w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/image-14-252x300.png 252w" sizes="(max-width: 589px) 100vw, 589px"></figure></a><figcaption>Mbappe was asked directly by a fan about moving to Arsenal</figcaption></figure>



After that, the player says, “Arsenal?”, while still giggling. “There’s no way. There’s no way.” According to the superstar, the British weather is to blame for the impossibility of a transfer to the Emirates Stadium. He explained to the supporter: “It’s too cold there.”



<h2>Not first time rejecting London move</h2>



Mbappe’s rejection of a move to north London is hardly unprecedented. At one point, he <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVoxlZ7U9_I&amp;pp=ygUSbWJhcHBlIHRvbSBob2xsYW5k&amp;themeRefresh=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crushed the heart of Tom Holland</a>, a Tottenham supporter and Spider-Man actor. While meeting at the Ballon d’Or awards event in December 2021, the Marvel actor playfully invited the PSG star to go to Spurs.



While insisting it was “impossible,” he once again burst into laughing, exactly as he did with the Arsenal fan.



Photo credit: IMAGO / PA Images.

Mbappe has fantastic response to fan asking him to join Arsenal

While Arsenal's supporters fret about the club's future in their pursuit of the Premier League crown, rumors of potential transfers abound.

Mbappe has fantastic response to fan asking him to join Arsenal - World Soccer Talk

Real Madrid is looking to complete a dream transfer for Kylian Mbappe, which would be a crushing blow to one of his summer aspirations: the Summer Olympics in Paris. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/kylian-mbappe/neither-7-nor-10-mbappe-to-wear-this-number-with-real-madrid/">Mbappe</a> reportedly notified PSG that he won’t renew his contract, set to expire on June 30.



Two coup attempts by President Florentino Perez—in 2017 and 2022—failed, so he is eventually likely to join <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a>. Spanish reports say that Mbappe has signed a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-makes-up-mind-on-where-he-will-play-next-season-20240204-WST-487479.html">five-year deal with Perez’s team</a>, despite disputes from French media sites.



Tension between the player and his prospective new club may arise in both Spain and his home country; even before Mbappe slips into the famous Whites jersey.



The plot revolves around Mbappe transitioning from representing France at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">Euro 2024</a> to the upcoming <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/olympics-soccer-schedule-and-tv-guide/">Olympic Games</a> in Paris.



<h2>What did Mbappe previously say about Paris Olympics before Real Madrid move?</h2>



Mbappe has expressed his desire to participate in this summer’s Olympic Games in Paris, his hometown. Thierry Henry reportedly <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/france-to-add-mbappe-and-two-euro-2024-stars-for-olympics/">aims to call up Mbappe</a>, along with Antoine Griezmann and Olivier Giroud, as surplus players.



While the 25-year-old has expressed his desire to win the Olympic gold medal, his club will ultimately decide his participation.



“It’s my employer who decides. It will be a pleasure to play in them, but if my employer doesn’t want to, I will support that decision. I don’t think it will take much time to think about it,” Mbappe told <a href="https://rmcsport.bfmtv.com/football/equipe-de-france/equipe-de-france-mbappe-aimerait-disputer-les-jeux-olympiques_AV-201810170333.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RMC Sport</a> in 2018.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240315_WST_495199_Mbappe-substitute-1200x670_a4e51616.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-495238" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-substitute-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-substitute-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-substitute-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-substitute.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



However, his desired move to Santiago Bernabeu may jeopardize his chance to captain France in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.



<h2>Deschamps confirms chances</h2>



However, Mbappe will most likely not participate in Paris 2024, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/lequipe/status/1768155153578775001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1768155153578775001%7Ctwgr%5E7252eb35278c6c67d0e4cb6452a0e237fcfc1e2a%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sport.es%2Fes%2Fnoticias%2Freal-madrid%2Fmbappe-aleja-juegos-99458853" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">L’Equipe</a>. They even go as far as to say that Madrid is hesitant to let him go, even for the 2024 Euro, all while he is only just starting with the club.



“Whatever Mbappe’s desire for the Olympic experience, the possibility of seeing him compete in the Olympics with France is diminishing day by day. Hopes would be quite slim,” states the French publication.



The European Champions will commence on June 20, with the final scheduled for July 24, just preceding the 2024 Olympics. As a result, the 25-year-old won’t be able to join Madrid until after the Euro ends on August 10.



France coach Didier Deschamps has joined others in questioning Mbappe’s eligibility to compete for France at the upcoming Paris Olympics. He said that competing in the Games immediately before Euro 2024 would be a “very difficult” task.



“It is very difficult from a psychological and physical viewpoint to take part in two competitions like that one after the other, in the summer, without having any holiday,” Deschamps <a href="https://www.lemonde.fr/en/sports/article/2024/03/14/mbappe-presence-at-olympics-very-difficult-says-france-coach-deschamps_6619292_9.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said on Thursday</a>.



“We don’t want any interference with our preparations, so once we are in our training camp at Clairefontaine, it needs to be clear who is going and who is not going.” 



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Euro or Olympics? Madrid set to dash Mbappe's summer plans

Madrid is likely to complete a dream transfer for Kylian Mbappe, which would be a crushing blow to a summer aspiration: the Olympics.

As his contract with PSG expires this summer, Real Madrid are heavy favorites to sign Kylian Mbappe. When revealed, the deal has the potential to shock the sports world, but it has been looming on the horizon for a long time.



Throughout his 291 games played in the French capital, he tallied 244 goals and 105 assists. Despite his consistent success in Ligue 1, the Parisian sensation will be looking for greener pastures in the summer.



His signing would be perfect for Los Blancos, who are <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-effect-psg-star-could-follow-teammate-to-real-madrid-20240223-WST-491361.html">clearly in the driver’s seat</a>; in fact, the transfer seems more than certain now. Despite being considered the ideal successor to Karim Benzema, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/france-to-add-mbappe-and-two-euro-2024-stars-for-olympics/">Mbappe</a> decided to remain at Parc des Princes in 2022.



With the official announcement yet to come, there is one tiny detail that is still missing: Which Real Madrid jersey number will Kylian Mbappe wear?



<h2>Current numbers excluded</h2>



At Paris Saint-Germain, Kylian Mbappe wears kit No. 7, the number that Vinicius currently occupies at Real Madrid. The Frenchman’s admiration for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/the-year-in-review-the-top-soccer-stories-in-2023-20231219-WST-475178.html">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> is well-known.



Before relocating to Saudi Arabia, the legendary Portuguese player immortalized the number seven shirt while playing for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a>, Real Madrid, and Juventus. The 39-year-old also wears the No. 7 jersey for Al-Nassr.



Thus, he will reportedly not be able to wear the number 7 jersey for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> at this time. To make room for the incoming player, the Los Blancos will not ask Vinicius to give it up. With Ronaldo’s exit to Juventus, Madrid named Eden Hazard the team’s starting number seven.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240314_WST_495149_Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit-1200x670_d2b8f604.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-495164" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



However, once the Belgian departed the club, the shirt went to the Brazilian since Hazard failed. The 23-year-old winger is a formidable player because of his status as one of the club’s most important performers in previous La Liga seasons.



The 25-year-old Mbappe also usually wears jersey number 10 for France, but Luka Modric is now wearing that jersey in the Spanish capital. Even if Modric’s contract <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/no-mls-or-saudi-club-contacts-modric-over-summer-move-20240225-WST-491606.html">situation may clear up this summer</a>, the answer is there in front of Kylian Mbappe’s nose.



<h2>Which kit number will Mbappe wear at Real Madrid?</h2>



Nevertheless, Mbappe will be wearing yet another legendary jersey in the Spanish capital. The 25-year-old World Cup champion will most likely wear jersey number 9 for Real Madrid, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/diarioas/status/1767280135453974539?s=46&amp;t=1Rw1VYaHMEKKfPCZNK0SVg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diario AS</a>.



This jersey number has been vacated as it belonged to the legendary Frenchman Karim Benzema, a Real Madrid great. Before signing for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad, Benzema won the Ballon d’Or while donning the Whites’ famous No. 9 shirt.



While Benzema’s impact on Los Blancos will be hard to top, Mbappe will consider himself a success if he scores half as many goals as Benzema. Since Benzema is a striker who understands how to win over the Bernabeu faithful, Mbappe has already talked to him about life in Spain, the report adds.



After Raul left Los Blancos, Cristiano Ronaldo inherited his number seven kit, albeit he had previously worn number nine. Then, 12 years later, the Portuguese legend made his second return to Manchester United. It was then that the Red Devils requested that experienced striker Edinson Cavani give up the No. 7 jersey. It seems that Real Madrid are not likely to experience a similar scenario.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Neither 7 nor 10: Mbappe to wear this number with Real Madrid

Awaiting for an official announcement, there is one tiny detail to be ironed out: Which Real Madrid jersey number will Kylian Mbappe wear?

With several nations’ seasons winding down, this summer promises to be jam-packed with crucial soccer tournaments. All eyes in the soccer world will be on the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/olympics-soccer-schedule-and-tv-guide/">Olympic Games</a>, the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">European Championship</a>, and the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/copa-america-tv-schedule/">Copa America</a>.



France will not only host the Olympic Games. It is one of the favorites to take home gold in the men’s soccer competition. Under the tutelage of French icon Thierry Henry, the national squad will compete in the Olympics. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> legend has already selected a few players from the three U23s who are qualified to participate.



<h2>Three Euro 2024 stars to participate in Olympics for France?</h2>



According to the rules of the soccer part of the games, Thierry Henry will have to choose an Olympic squad mostly made up of under-23 players. Nevertheless, the managers have the option to choose three players older than 23 to their roster. Henry plans to strengthen his attacking capabilities in preparation for the games by selecting three senior internationals. The former Monaco manager plans to strengthen his side with three strong superstars.



According to <a href="https://www.leparisien.fr/jo-paris-2024/paris-2024-pour-les-jo-thierry-henry-espere-mbappe-griezmann-et-giroud-11-03-2024-4V7KFRAPRBGIFLB54DNXR3TP2Y.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Le Parisien</a>, Henry plans to field a French Olympic team that includes Mbappe (25), Griezmann (32), and Giroud (37). Everyone will be watching Les Bleus battle for the gold medal in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240313_WST_494898_Griezmann-Giroud-Mbappe-1200x670_18955806.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494949" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Griezmann-Giroud-Mbappe-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Griezmann-Giroud-Mbappe-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Griezmann-Giroud-Mbappe-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Griezmann-Giroud-Mbappe.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Thus, the trio will bring a combined 331 caps to the Olympic squad, which the 46-year-old hopes would give them an advantage. In many instances, the PSG captain and Atletico Madrid forward have expressed their desire to participate in the games.



Giroud, who has scored 56 goals for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/france-national-team-tv-schedule/">French national team</a>—more than Thierry Henry—would hold high esteem for Henry himself. Participating in the Olympic Games would be a huge accomplishment for the seasoned striker. The report adds that it’s something that the current AC Milan star would want to do as well.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="How to watch EURO 2024 on TV &amp; Streaming 🏆" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n0Q39wz9ojA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<h2>What did Thierry Henry say previously?</h2>



The Athletic has also confirmed that France’s captain Mbappe is expected to be named to the Les Bleus Olympic pool. However, whether he has a formal agreement with Real Madrid remains uncertain. Considering the current transfer saga, it would allow him to compete for his country in the 2024 Paris Olympics.



Thus, clubs are not required to release six players, even during the European football preseason. Proceedings involving Mbappé, who seemed to be the trio’s closest confidant, may go on for some time.



Thierry Henry informed the international press that Mbappe has expressed his desire to participate. Still, he can’t rush into seeking a possible release until he has more information about what’s ahead.



“Kylian has a special place everywhere,” Henry told <a href="https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20240119-coach-henry-dreams-of-mbappe-and-gold-for-olympic-hosts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AFP</a> in January. “But there’s a difference between wanting something and being able to attain it. I don’t know where he’ll end up, but the club will have a say. I haven’t contacted him about it yet.”



“No one has approached me. They ask each other. Let’s be honest, it’s the Olympics in France, so it’s a big deal for everyone. If you talk to any player in France, they’d like to do the Olympics. But will they be able to?”



“I have a lot of possibilities and very few certainties. That’s inherent in the youth category. It’s even truer when it comes to preparing for the Olympic Games, which don’t fit into the FIFA calendar. We’re at the mercy of the clubs’ willingness to release their players.”



“I don’t know who I will select yet, but let’s say I want a player and his current club accepts. If he is transferred in the summer, how do I know if his new club will want to release him?”



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

France to add Mbappe and two Euro 2024 stars for Olympics

With several nations' seasons entering the closing stage, the focus for many, including France, is shifting to Euro 2024 and the Olympics.

Even though Real Madrid has a partnership with Adidas, the arrival of Kylian Mbappe might lead to Nike designating the Frenchman as their own sports brand.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-to-real-madrid-sense-of-relief-for-manchester-city">Mbappe</a> allegedly informed <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">PSG</a> last month that he would be leaving the club when his contract ends on June 30. Despite denials in other places, Spanish reports suggest the 25-year-old already has a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-effect-psg-star-could-follow-teammate-to-real-madrid-20240223-WST-491361.html">five-year deal</a> in place.



Despite the lack of an official announcement, the Frenchman looks likely to leave the French capital for its Spanish equivalent in preparation for the 2024-25 season. It would be a stroke of genius on Madrid’s part to get a superstar of the future for nothing.



Even with Mbappe’s signing-on fee and salary demands met, the player’s famously hardball mother Fayza Lamari will be difficult, if not impossible, to please. After the details are worked out, however, it should be profitable for everyone involved.



<h2>Mbappe set for own Nike brand</h2>



Mbappe could see a meteoric increase in his status and riches in addition to his new salary at the Bernabeu. Nearing completion of his free move to the Spanish club, Mbappe will receive a signing-on bonus of over $142 million.



Nevertheless, after joining Real Madrid, the France captain may get a substantial windfall from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/neither-puma-nor-nike-2-options-for-barcelona-kits-next-season-20240301-WST-492511.html">Nike</a>. It seems like the American clothing brand has Kylian Mbappe’s label all but set to launch this summer. As is common for athletes, the Frenchman wears Nike as his official athletic apparel brand. Not only does he wear Nike gear, but Cristiano Ronaldo does as well.



Like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Rafael Nadal before him, Nike is getting ready to give him his own line. The rising star striker would make history as the first Nike soccer player to have products marketed in his name.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240313_WST_494946_Mbappe-boots-1200x670_8bfa40b6.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494962" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-boots-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-boots-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-boots-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-boots.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



In addition to being Mbappe’s boot sponsor, reports from Spain suggest that one of Nike’s most renowned customers may be in the midst of a unique project. Eduardo Inda, chief pundit of OK Diario, made the claim when appearing on El Chiringuito.



“Nike, which is the brand that fits the player, is seriously considering creating a line of its own for the player once he signs for Real Madrid. This is a privilege that Nike has only given three world athletes. One is Michael Jordan, which has the main line. The second is LeBron James and third is Rafa Nadal. Kylian Mbappe could be the footballer that has his own line within Nike,” he said.



<h2>What does it mean for Real Madrid?</h2>



In 2019, Mbappe inked a 10-year contract with Nike. If it comes to fruition, it will extend his rumored deal with Madrid until its expiration.



Mbappe reportedly receives $15.3 million every season as part of the Nike arrangement, <a href="https://okdiario.com/diariomadridista/real-madrid/mbappe-denuncia-dueno-kebab-utilizar-nombre-uno-sus-platos-411099" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OK Diario</a> says. He is the second highest-paid player for the Oregon sportswear giant, behind Cristiano Ronaldo.



Real Madrid uses Adidas as their official sponsor, even though Mbappe is signed with Nike. With <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/clubs-with-most-jersey-sales-city-shockingly-miss-out-on-top-10-20240221-WST-490924.html">$167 million in revenue from jersey and apparel sales</a>, the Spanish powerhouse was $26 million short of their La Liga rivals, Barcelona.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Mbappe to get own Nike brand despite Madrid's deal with Adidas

Even though Real Madrid have a partnership with Adidas, the arrival of Kylian Mbappe might lead to a big financial windfall from Nike.

In the world of soccer, Kylian Mbappe’s potential move from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid is front and center. This move is close to being official, as the Spanish media have broken news that could stun the world. It will likely amount to an incredible half a billion euros in the next five years.



Mbappe will get $140 million from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-demands-brother-to-join-him-at-madrid-whats-next-20240228-WST-492011.html">Real Madrid as a signing fee</a>, with the rest $290 million coming in installments. The club’s commitment to acquiring the French player is evident in this massive sum, which is partially funded by the proceeds from the new stadium.



This move and others like it will be easier for Madrid to complete at the club’s new stadium. The team is anticipated to generate substantial income, enabling them to invest heavily in players like Mbappe and Erling Halland.



<h2>Busy summer ahead awaits Mbappe</h2>



The La Liga leaders are also reportedly busy preparing for the arrival of the Frenchman. With what is expected to be his first international move, Mbappe is in for a busy summer. Assuming he does really relocate, he will have a busy schedule leading up to the start of the La Liga season.



The 25-year-old will also be present at the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">UEFA European Championship</a> in Germany with France and at the home Olympics in Paris. The Euro starts out on June 14 and concludes on July 14.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="798" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240309_WST_494402_imago1037171854h-1200x798_04b8574e.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=798" alt="" class="wp-image-494437" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-1200x798.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-768x511.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-2048x1363.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Mbappe will lead France into Euro 2024 this coming summer</figcaption></figure>



In the meantime, the soccer portion of the Olympics will take place from July 24 to August 10, a whole month later. Six days after that, the Spanish season will have officially started.



No one can predict France’s or Mbappe’s performance in any given tournament. Unfortunately, this means Los Blancos won’t have much time to greet him with the fanfare and circumstance they surely want.



Also, Mbappe will probably miss the whole of their preseason visit to the United States if he does end up going to the Olympics.



<h2>When could Real Madrid host Mbappe’s presentation?</h2>



Thus, Spanish newspaper <a href="https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2024/03/08/65eac86d22601d08618b45ca.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marca</a> claims that the striker will reportedly be presented at the Santiago Bernabeu between June 3 and June 6. That is before he officially joins the French national team for the upcoming tournaments.



The week before the final will be the alternate date in case <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> or Mbappe don’t play in the Champions League final. June 28 and June 29 would be Taylor Swift’s performances at the Santiago Bernabeu, therefore it would probably be on the 30th or 31st.



Regardless of the enormous uncertainty around his future, Mbappe has maintained an exceptionally high level of performance. Even though he has been impressive, <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/luis-enrique-bizarre-response-whether-kylian-mbappe-will-be-on-psg-bench/blt7f4124024e9a2bc9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luis Enrique</a> has made it a point to use Mbappe less often in each match.



The French striker had already been substituted after 65 minutes of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">PSG</a>‘s goalless draw with Rennes a week before; he was removed at halftime during the match against his former club, Monaco. “Sooner or later, he is not going to play with us, we need to get used to that”, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/more-drama-psg-boss-explains-decision-to-sub-mbappe-off-20240302-WST-492736.html">Enrique explained</a>.



“My job is that way. I have to make decisions all the time. That’s my philosophy, my idea, to think about the best option for my team. Nothing else. Those are my decisions. I’m not going to enter into this game. I’m a professional. I don’t have a problem. It’s just a question of management and how best to manage the squad.”



Photo credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire : IMAGO / NurPhoto

Busy summer: Date of Mbappe's presentation at Madrid revealed

There are rumors about Kylian Mbappe's presentation as a Real Madrid player, despite no contract yet being inked

ALL POSTS TAGGED "Kylian Mbappe" - Page 4

News

Ratcliffe claims United will exercise caution in transfer market

News

Mbappe has fantastic response to fan asking him to join Arsenal

Kylian Mbappe

Euro or Olympics? Madrid set to dash Mbappe's summer plans

Kylian Mbappe

Neither 7 nor 10: Mbappe to wear this number with Real Madrid

News

France to add Mbappe and two Euro 2024 stars for Olympics

News

Mbappe to get own Nike brand despite Madrid's deal with Adidas

News

Busy summer: Date of Mbappe's presentation at Madrid revealed