Fans spot Neymar and Lionel Messi's reactions to Kylian Mbappe scoring a penalty against Benfica
Fans have picked up on how Kylian Mbappe's teammates reacted to him taking a penalty against Benfica on Tuesday night.
Mbappe put PSG 1-0 up from the spot in the 39th minute at the Parc des Princes after Juan Bernat was fouled inside the box.
It was his 12th goal of the season and came after serious doubts over his future at PSG emerged.
Mbappe's ego and attitude has come into question even after he signed a new three-year deal with PSG, with he and Neymar having beef over a penalty against Montpellier.
Advert
Neymar refused to let Mbappe take a second spot-kick after he missed his first attempt and there were reports that a rift ensued in the dressing room.
On Tuesday, though, Mbappe assumed duties from 12 yards and Neymar, stood behind him as he did his run-up, was encouraging as ever.
Footage showed the Brazilian passionately willing his colleague on, suggesting that they aren't exactly mortal enemies.
— Footy Lover (@FootyLover3) October 11, 2022
Oddly, Lionel Messi did not offer much of a celebration. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner watched the game from the stands after being ruled out of the clash through injury but when the cameras went on him, he did not react to Mbappe scoring.
Messi’s reaction when Mbappe finally hits the penalty #ChampionsLeague #messi #mbappe #psgbenfica #psg pic.twitter.com/bP9YtDM8tz
— spongespob (@Gymnasiemist) October 12, 2022
— Footy Lover (@FootyLover3) October 11, 2022
Going into the game, reports claimed Mbappe's relationship with PSG was "completely broken" and that he wishes to leave in January.
Real Madrid and Liverpool have both been touted as potential suitors.
Following PSG's 0-0 draw with Reims on Monday, Mbappe took to Instagram and posted an image of himself from the game, with the hashtag "pivot gang" - referring to having to play in a lone striker role.
In response, manager Christophe Galtier had a special Mbappe message written on his notes against Benfica.
After the draw, Galtier was asked about Mbappe's situation but did not give too much away.
"A lot was said about him this afternoon,” he told RMC Sport, as per GFFN.
"I haven’t spoken about it with him, the objective is to remain concentrated on the match. He gave a lot tonight, he showed he was a great player, that he was concentrated on the match and the competition.”
Meanwhile, France legend Thierry Henry blasted Mbappe and urged him to put his ego to the side and do what he is asked to do for the team.
Topics: Kylian Mbappe, Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar, Lionel Messi
Josh Lawless