Luis Enrique: 'Paris Saint-Germain must get used to playing without Kylian Mbappe'

Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique has defended his decision to substitute Kylian Mbappe during Sunday's 1-1 draw against Rennes.

In recent weeks, speculation has intensified over the long-term future of the 2018 World Cup winner, who has been heavily linked with Real Madrid.

Although an official announcement has not been made, it is widely accepted that Mbappe has already agreed to sign for Los Blancos on a free transfer.

PSG have allegedly been informed of the decision at a time when they have ambitions to win Ligue 1, Champions League and Coupe de France before the end of the campaign.

The current aim is to wrap up the Ligue 1 title race as soon as possible, PSG holding an 11-point advantage over the chasing pack with 15 matches remaining.

© Reuters

However, their lead was reduced over the weekend as they were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Rennes, with PSG reliant on a 96th-minute equaliser from Goncalo Ramos.

Earlier in the match, as early as the 65th minute, Ramos had been introduced to surprisingly replace Mbappe, who has contributed 32 goals in all competitions during 2023-24.

While the move ultimately paid off with Ramos netting from the spot, Enrique was naturally quizzed on his decision after the contest at Parc des Princes, indicating that it may not be an isolated call on his part.

Speaking after the game, the Spaniard said: "We have to get used to not playing with Kylian, sooner or later it's going to happen.

© Reuters

"When I consider it appropriate, he will play or not play, as all coaches do with their players.

"I want maximum competitiveness for next season. I want every starting player in this PSG team to think that this is a great opportunity. That's what I'm looking for this season and next season."

The expectation remains that Mbappe will retain his spot in the starting lineup for the next two matches, a consequence of them being potentially-pivotal games in the context of the season.

After a trip to face Monaco - his former club - on Friday night, PSG square off against Real Sociedad in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, holding a 2-0 advantage from the first fixture in Paris.