Kylian Mbappe’s dream of a grand farewell with Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final has been shattered after their shock elimination by Borussia Dortmund. The French superstar, who is set to depart PSG at the end of the season, had hoped to lead the club to their first-ever European title.
However, Dortmund’s 2-0 aggregate victory in the semi-finals has dashed those hopes. Mbappe, who is widely expected to join Real Madrid, was one of four PSG players to hit the woodwork in the second leg, as the French giants failed to overturn a one-goal deficit from the first leg.
The defeat has been met with disappointment and criticism, with sports daily L’Equipe awarding Mbappe a dismal two out of 10 for his performance. The elimination marks another setback in PSG’s long-standing quest for Champions League glory, adding to a string of disappointing knockout round exits.
Despite the presence of Mbappe, PSG’s squad has undergone a significant overhaul this season, with the departures of Lionel Messi and Neymar. Coach Luis Enrique has overseen the transition, but the team’s lack of experience at the highest level may have ultimately cost them.
The average age of PSG’s starting lineup in the semi-final was just 24 years and 157 days, the youngest for any team in a Champions League semi-final since 2009. Enrique will hope that the experience gained by his young players will benefit them in the future.
However, it remains to be seen how PSG can improve their chances of winning the Champions League without Mbappe. The club is expected to spend heavily on a replacement, but it is difficult to imagine a team better equipped to challenge for the trophy without the French superstar.
