‘It’s not clever to sign Mbappe’ — Manchester United owner rules out summer move for PSG star

Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe | Imago

‘It’s not clever to sign Mbappe’ — Manchester United owner rules out summer move for PSG star

Ayoola Kelechi 15:15 - 19.03.2024

Manchester United fans hoping to watch Kylian Mbappe in the near future will have to watch other clubs after part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe ruled out any chance of the Frenchman joining the Red Devils

Manchester United's part-time owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has firmly shut down speculation regarding a potential summer move for Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe.

Despite Mbappe's impending contract expiry and his decision not to extend his tenure with PSG, Ratcliffe has unequivocally ruled out any pursuit of the French superstar.

Ratcliffe's Stance on Mbappe signing

Kylian Mbappe's contract with Paris Saint-Germain is set to expire in the summer, sparking widespread speculation about his next destination. With Mbappe signalling his intention to seek opportunities beyond PSG, numerous top clubs have been linked with the prolific forward, including Manchester United.

In a recent interview, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Manchester United's potential part-time owner, dismissed any notions of the club pursuing Kylian Mbappe. Ratcliffe expressed his belief that investing heavily in established stars like Mbappe may not necessarily translate to success on the pitch. He stated, “Mbappe to Man United? I’d try to find the next Mbappe rather than spend a fortune trying to buy success.”

Alternative Strategies

Ratcliffe highlighted the significance of scouting and developing promising talents who could become the next generation of football stars. By prioritizing the identification of potential gems, Ratcliffe suggested that clubs could achieve sustainable success in the long term, rather than relying solely on high-profile signings. He emphasized, “It’s not that clever to sign Mbappe now, it’s more challenging to find the next Mbappe, next Bellingham or next Roy Keane.”

Rather than pursuing marquee signings like Mbappe, Ratcliffe suggested that clubs should focus on building a squad with a blend of experienced players and emerging talents. Drawing parallels with past legends like Roy Keane, Ratcliffe emphasized the value of nurturing homegrown talent and instilling a winning culture within the club.

As the club navigates a period of transition and potential ownership changes, Ratcliffe's emphasis on identifying and developing emerging talents reflects a broader shift in football philosophy. While Mbappe remains one of the most coveted stars in world football, Ratcliffe's comments signal a departure from the traditional approach to player recruitment, favoring a more sustainable and strategic vision for Manchester United's future.

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