PSG demand Mbappe and Neymar to ‘at least play nice in public’ to avoid media scrutiny amid feud between star duo: Reports
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are demanding that Kylian Mbappe and Neymar keep their feud out of the public eye for the benefit of the team, as per Goal. Tensions between the pair have risen following a dispute over a penalty in PSG's recent 5-2 thrashing of Montpellier on August 13.
Neymar scored a double in the match, including a 43rd minute spot kick, but the Brazilian argued with Mbappe over who should take the penalty. The French striker had missed a penalty earlier in the half and Neymar dismissed the notion of Mbappe taking the next one as well.
Off the back of this, reports have claimed that a power struggle between the pair has ensued at the Parc des Princes, which also involves Lionel Messi. However, PSG have moved promptly to shut down the feud between the duo by demanding that the duo essentially at least play nice in public. The demands were made in front of the entire Parisian squad, with team cohesion being stressed by the higher-ups at the Parc des Princes.
Meanwhile, Mbappe has wanted it made clear that he is the main man at PSG, having signed a three-year contract in May. The Frenchman had been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid with his contract expiring. However, he accepted a new deal with the Ligue 1 champions, which makes him the highest paid player at the club.
Sources have told ESPN that Mbappe got annoyed last season at the liberties Neymar took in terms of his discipline.
While Neymar was equally surprised to hear about the power Mbappe was given as part of his new contract. https://t.co/is1bdIHrvD
Neymar has excelled so far this season with five goals and three assists in just three appearances. Mbappe has managed just one appearance so far, scoring one goal following a minor injury.
PSG boss Christophe Galtier will want Mbappe and Neymar to resolve their issue for the benefit of the club
The two Parisian superstars' rivalry is becoming a huge talking point around the Parc des Princes. With Christophe Galtier being installed as the club's new manager, they won't want any distractions that could harm the club.
Galtier's side have started the campaign off in impressive fashion with two wins in their first two league games. The Parisians have scored ten goals in those fixtures, with Messi and Neymar flourishing for the Ligue 1 giants.
Neymar: Don’t pass to Mbappe, this mf wanted to sell me. https://t.co/yB5yntXl3S
Mbappe's irritation during the 5-2 victory over Montpellier was clear to see as he seemingly walked away from the ongoing action at one point. Galtier will be keen for the French star to nip it in the bud as he eyes a successful season in charge at the Parc des Princes.