Paris Saint-Germain and French national team star Kylian Mbappé has raised concerns about the expanding European soccer schedule, drawing parallels with the NBA’s contentious load management issues.
Mbappé, 25, participated in 63 matches during the 2022-23 season, prompting him to express worries about the impact on player performance. In an interview with GQ Sports, he highlighted the NBA’s approach, where players often sit out games for load management, and cautioned against expecting consistent top-level performances in the face of such demanding schedules.
“We are approaching the NBA model with 70-game seasons,” Mbappé remarked. “Personally, I am not against playing so much, but we will not be able to be good every time and give the audience the expected show. In the NBA, players do not play every match and franchises practice load management.”
Kylian Mbappé, who faced injuries in the previous season, discussed the NBA’s analytical report suggesting no correlation between load management and decreased injury risk. The NBA has implemented measures such as fining teams for resting players during nationally televised games and establishing a game threshold for eligibility for awards.
The French forward hopes for a collaborative approach in soccer to address the challenges posed by an extended schedule. “We need to think together about how to offer the best possible solution so that players, spectators, and football’s governing bodies can all embrace it,” he emphasized.
Kylian Mbappé also drew parallels with NBA superstar LeBron James, whom he considers a mentor. Reflecting on James’ career and projects beyond sports, Mbappé highlighted the value of seeking advice from inspiring figures like him.
Regarding transfer rumors linking him to Real Madrid, Mbappé neither confirmed nor denied the speculations. He acknowledged the changing landscape of football, with players like Lionel Messi and Neymar moving outside Europe, considering it part of the sport’s evolving cycle.
“Many great players who have shaped the history of football have left Europe this summer, and we are entering a new era,” Mbappé observed. “It’s become part of the cycle of this sport, and at some point, it will be my turn to leave. I’m not worried about these changes. I’m simply thinking about continuing my career and following my own path.”
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