Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit has claimed that the Gunners 'would love' to sign Kylian Mbappe, but the French forward will only leave Real Madrid if the club forces him out. Speaking to BOYLE Sports, Petit suggested that Mbappe's future at the Bernabeu depends on president Florentino Perez's decision amid growing fan pressure.
Arsenal's Attractive Position
Arsenal are closing in on the Premier League title and could face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final later this month. Winning Europe's top prize would make them one of the most attractive destinations for any player this summer. Petit believes that success would send a strong message in the transfer market and could help lure Mbappe if he becomes available.
Mbappe's Situation at Real Madrid
Mbappe has been prolific since joining Real Madrid two seasons ago, but chaos has engulfed the club recently. Fede Valverde was hospitalized after a dressing room bust-up with Aurelien Tchouameni, while Mbappe himself was spotted arguing with a staff member. A hamstring injury has kept him out of the side, though he could return for Sunday's Clasico against Barcelona. The forward was given time off last week to travel to Sardinia with the club's permission, but fans were outraged by photos of him relaxing on a yacht. An online petition calling for his departure has now been signed by over 32 million Madrid supporters.
Petit's Analysis
Petit believes Mbappe will only leave if Perez decides to sell him. 'The only reason I think Mbappe will stay at Real Madrid is because if he leaves without winning a trophy it would make his move a failure,' Petit said. 'Mbappe has a huge ego so he will probably want to stay and prove the opposite. I don't see him leaving Madrid, probably the biggest club in the world, unless the decision is made for him.' He added that the fan pressure could be the tipping point, as Perez is a political figure who may crack under the strain.
Petit described Mbappe as 'perfect' for Arsenal's left wing and stressed that winning the Champions League would change the club's history. 'Players would of course want to play for the Champions League winners and hope they can go and win it again,' he said. 'It would help them attract Kylian Mbappe if he does leave Real Madrid.'
