Kylian Mbappe subbed: Luis Enrique says PSG needs to learn life without star

Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique has defended his decision to take off Kylian Mbappe at half-time during their draw against AS Monaco, saying that his team needs to learn about life without the French star.

Mbappe was taken off early by Enrique for the second time in a row after being taken off in the 65th minute against Rennes.

The French skipper has been at the centre of major speculation, as some reports reveal that he is close to making a big switch to Real Madrid in the summer.

Enrique has now added some fuel to the fire as he said that it was his call to take off Mbappe early as he wanted his team to learn playing without their star player.

Speaking to the reporters, as quoted by ESPN, the PSG boss also said that it was his decision and he would continue to do what is best for his side.

"I have been in football long enough, you should know that everything is important in this kind of club," Enrique told reporters. "Sooner rather than later, we will play without Mbappé so I'm looking for the best option for the team.

"Sometimes I'm right, sometimes I'm wrong. We need to get used to it [playing without Mbappé]. I will do what is best for my team. I don't want to create controversy, it's my decision."

Mbappe won't wait till May to make decision

Regarding his own future, Mbappe had said that he won't wait till May to make a call. The last time he extended his contract with PSG in late May 2022.

"But in any case, with the agreement I made with the chairman (Nasser Al-Khelaifi) this summer, it doesn't matter what I decide."

"We managed to protect all parties and preserve the club's serenity for the challenges ahead, which remains the most important thing. So we'll say it's secondary."

"I think it was the end of May in 2022 because I didn't know until May," he added. "If I know what I want to do, why drag it out? It just doesn't make sense," said Mbappe.