Kylian Mbappé has officially withdrawn his criminal complaint for moral harassment against PSG. According to L’Équipe, it’s not an act of forgiveness—but a strategic de-escalation.
The complaint, originally filed in May, was tied to his exclusion from the infamous PSG “loft” in the summer of 2023. It had already triggered a formal investigation as of June 24. But despite this reversal, the legal standoff is far from over: Mbappé is still pursuing €55 million in unpaid wages and bonuses through a labor court case.
Why the U-turn? 3 reasons
1. Sporting focus and image control
Mbappé has major goals with Real Madrid—Club World Cup glory, a first Ballon d’Or—and doesn’t want the distraction of a high-profile court case. Real’s leadership, including Florentino Pérez, dislikes legal controversies, especially one involving Qatar, PSG’s owner. Staying clear of scandal keeps the focus on the pitch.
2. A more pragmatic legal route
Criminal proceedings are lengthy and uncertain. Labor court cases (like Neymar’s past dispute with Barça) are quicker, quieter, and allow for behind-the-scenes settlements. Dropping the most serious charge sends a clear signal: the Mbappé camp is open to negotiation.
3. Cooling tensions with PSG and French football
With PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi publicly wishing him well and backchannel discussions ongoing, the timing was right to ease hostilities. Continuing the criminal case would have reignited tensions—not just with PSG, but with Ligue 1 clubs that also use “loft” tactics. Mbappé avoids isolating himself in French football.
In short
Mbappé hasn’t forgiven—he’s recalibrated. The legal battle for his money continues, but away from the spotlight. For now, he’s choosing image, diplomacy, and ambition over confrontation.
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