Kylian Mbappe to skip Paris Olympics 2024 due to Real Madrid committments
France captain Kylian Mbappe has confirmed that his new club, Real Madrid, opposes the notion of him participating in the Paris Olympics 2024. Mbappe disclosed that he acquiesced to Real Madrid's stance to avoid starting
France captain Kylian Mbappe has confirmed that he will not be playing in the Paris Olympics 2024. Speaking in a press conference at the Euros, the mercurial footballer said that his new club Real Madrid are against the idea. The 25-year-old had said in March that he was keen on playing at the Olympics, which is being hosted by France this year. The Olympics are not on FIFA’s official calendar and clubs generally do not let their big players play in the quadrennial tournament due to the risk of injury in the off-season..
Mbappe was not included in a 25-man preliminary squad for the Olympics earlier this month, though head coach Thierry Henry left the door open.
“My club’s position was very clear, so from that moment on, I think I (knew) I won’t be taking part in the Games,” Mbappe told reporters ahead of Monday’s Group D match against Austria at Euro 2024.
“That’s just the way it is, and I understand that too. I’m joining a new team in September, so it’s not the best way to start an adventure,” Mbappe added.
“I’m going to wish this French team all the best. I’m going to watch every game. I hope they’ll win the gold medal.”
The men’s Olympic football competition begins on July 24, 10 days after the European Championships final, and ends on Aug. 9.