Marcus Thuram recently rocked French media with strong statements that immediately ignited the world of football. In an exclusive interview, the international striker said Real Madrid is, according to him, the most powerful club in the world today. He added bluntly that he firmly believes that Kylian Mbappé will shine in a thousand lights in his new colors and that this will cause a shock wave in Paris. According to him, Paris Saint-Germain will realize too late how badly he did towards his old jewel.
These words, direct and emotional, intervene in an already tense context between Mbappé and PSG. The departure of the French star for the Spanish capital was surrounded by controversies, in particular on the conflicts behind the scenes, the decisions of President al-Khelaïfi, and the treatment reserved for Mbappé during his last year of contract. Thuram, as Mbappé’s teammate in the French team, seems to want to defend his friend and highlight what he considers a deep injustice.
But what really intensified the controversy is the unexpected reaction of the French team coach Didier Deschamps. Rarely inclined to comment on club affairs, Deschamps has nevertheless considered it necessary to express itself in the face of the magnitude of the situation. Without citing PSG directly, he supported Thuram by declaring that “some players do not always receive the respect they deserve, even after giving everything.” A sentence that has been perceived by many as a clear support for Mbappé and a veiled criticism towards the Parisian club.
Behind the scenes, several sources say that tensions are palpable between certain executives of the French team, especially those who have strong links with PSG, and those who, like Mbappé and Thuram, feel closer to Real Madrid or criticism of the Parisian institution. The leaders of PSG, for their part, have not yet officially reacted to the words of Thuram or those of the coach, but according to some indiscretions, anger rumbles within the management.
This case could have repercussions beyond the simple media framework. A few months before a large international competition, these divisions could weaken the unity of the France group. Supporters are shared. Some defend Thuram for his courage and loyalty to Mbappé, while others believe that these statements harm the image of French football.
One thing is certain: the case is just beginning, and the next few weeks promise to explosive for the Blues, PSG and French football as a whole.
