'I didn't see any difference' - Luis Enrique dodges Kylian Mbappe question after Real Madrid revelation

  • Mbappe set to leave Paris Saint-Germain for Real Madrid in the summer
  • France captain could face frosty reception in home game against Rennes on Sunday
  • Enrique non-committal when asked how bombshell has affected squad

Mbappe is due to leave PSG this summer
Mbappe is due to leave PSG this summer / James Gill - Danehouse/GettyImages
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Paris Saint-Germain managed Luis Enrique says he has seen no significant change in Kylian Mbappe or his teammates since the news of his impending departure this summer emerged.

The France captain has told the club's hierarchy he will not stay at Parc des Princes beyond the current season and has agreed a five-year deal with Real Madrid.

Mbappe was dropped to the bench for PSG's last outing - a 2-0 win over Nantes in which he scored a penalty as a substitute - and Enrique sidestepped questions on the 25-year-old when asked if the bombshell news has affected him or the rest of the squad.

"I didn't see any difference in any of my players this week," Enrique quipped ahead of Sunday's clash with Rennes.

"What is getting closer, and what awaits us shortly, is this crucial match for us tomorrow. It is essential because we want to continue to prove that we are competitive against any opponent and in any competition.

"We play at home in front of our supporters because we are a club that must fight for all the titles and because being a PSG player does not allow you to relax. It would only be one match. This is my goal as a coach."


Kylian Mbappe
Mbappe is set to join Real Madrid / Jean Catuffe/GettyImages

Sunday will be PSG's first home game since Mbappe's departure was made public, though fans have been urged not to boo or chastise the former Monaco star before an official announcement has been made on his future.

L'Equipe say Mbappe has close connections with Collective Ultras Paris - a PSG supporters group - and has been able to use those strong links to dissuade any dissenting voices from whistling or booing.

How his return plays out will become more evident on Sunday, with Enrique's side hopeful of further extending their lead at the top of the Ligue 1 table.


READ MORE ON KYLIAN MBAPPE'S PSG FALLING OUT & POTENTIAL TRANSFER

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