Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique insists Kylian Mbappe could still produce a remarkable U-turn and stay in Paris.
The Frenchman’s contract with the Ligue 1 leaders expires in just a few months. He has long been expected to sign a mega-money contract with Real Madrid, joining as a free agent.
However, PSG's Spanish boss is still keeping his fingers crossed that Mbappe could turn down a move to the Santiago Bernabeu and instead stays in the French capital.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s clash against Marseille, he said: "Me, I've always remained hopeful that Kylian could change his mind -- he hasn't said anything for now. He could change his mind. Imagine if we win four trophies this season and Kylian Mbappé decides at the last minute that he wants to stay in Paris. Why not, we will see."
Enrique’s latest comments are a slight backtrack on his previous admission. Speaking earlier this month, he seemed sure that the striker was on his way out of the club this summer.
"Kylian, I'm not just discovering him today,” Enrique said. “You already know my opinion on him: He's the best player in the world.
“He'll score 50 goals and provide 25 assists in any team with any coach and unfortunately he won't be here in the near future so we will have to test other teammates of his."
The question is whether there have been any changes between Mbappe and Madrid that have caused the PSG boss to now take a different path.
Will Kylian Mbappe be a success at Real Madrid? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Mbappe has been in sensational form once again for PSG this season. The 25-year-old has 38 goals in 37 appearances in all competitions ahead of Sunday night's trip to Marseille.
The Frenchman has regularly been asked about his future but has remained tight-lipped on a potential switch to Real Madrid. He has confirmed that fans will be made aware of his long-term future by the time this summer’s Euros gets underway.
Speaking while on international duty, Mbappe said: "People will know [my situation]. I’ll arrive at the Euros with peace of mind. I’m already calm.
“It’s not even a topic at the club (PSG) any more, no one talks to me about it. There are no worries there. I’ll go to the Euros with peace of mind and with the certainty of doing great things."
One of Mbappe’s current international colleagues Aurelien Tchouameni has already dropped a hint over his future. When asked about the forward, the Real Madrid midfielder referred to “when” he would be joining him in Spain, rather than “if”.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.