Mbappé and Neymar: a Fight of Egos in PSG

About a year ago one of the most impressive football tridents in history was formed: that of Messi, Neymar and Mbappé. It was a team that looked invincible from day one.

Although this wonder trio has worked at times, rumors have been circulating lately that this partnership is facing problems. Several “evidence” circulate on social networks that would show that Messi and Neymar are leaving Mbappé aside.

But perhaps the ultimate proof, which demonstrate that something is wrong, came in last weekend's match, when PSG faced Montpellier with a 5-2 victory in a match that was relatively easy for the trio to win.

After Mbappé missed the first penalty that was sanctioned in the match, he wanted to collect the second, but the 10 of Brazil prevented him. The discussion between the two remained outside the scope of the microphones, but the discomfort between the two players could be seen, especially after Neymar celebrated the penalty scored.

Why Is Mbappé Angry?

The coveted French striker, Mbappé, rejected a millionaire deal with Real Madrid to join PSG, but it seems that his love for the team has fallen short. According to various rumors circulating on the Internet, Mbappé is not happy about having lost his level in the PSG hierarchy.

As Neymar has had such a good start to the season, Mbappé has lost the limelight and this seems to bother him. Some media have even reported that Kylian Mbappé allegedly requested the transfer of the Brazilian in the transfer window and that, additionally, Neymar is aware of his intentions to get rid of him. However, according to the newspaper Le Parisien, Luis Campos, from the PSG management team, met Mbappé and Neymar to ask them to solve their problems privately.

Also read: 5 Candidates to Win the Premier League this Season

The Fail of the “super teams” Is Not Exclusive to Football

Although it may sound contradictory, a team that is full of superstars is not necessarily successful.

In addition to ego conflicts, redundant skills and a lack of chemistry between players can also be a problem, even among top level footballers. A similar case recently happened in the basketball world in the United States, with the 2021 Brooklyn Nets team.

This team had Kyrie Irving, James Harden and Kevin Durant, three of the best offensive players today, but it completely failed to deliver results. Players' egos clashed and while their offensive prowess was unquestionable, their redundant abilities left them exposed in other important aspects of the game, such as defense.

Thus, the Nets franchise lost millions of dollars in a dream that never happened. The feared Nets never managed to win a title, much less the respect of the fans who watched them.

Although PSG have the unlimited support of their Qatari owners, it is difficult for them to maintain patience for long if the conflicts between their stars continue. Will the trident end?