Lizarazu's Bold Take: Mbappé And PSG Better Off Apart

In a surprising turn of events for football aficionados, Bixente Lizarazu, the noted former French international, recently expressed his thoughts on Kylian Mbappé's departure from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to join Real Madrid, highlighting an unexpected perspective on the matter.

As reported in L'Équipe on March 20, 2025, Lizarazu voiced strong opinions regarding the ongoing debate about whether PSG is better off without their former star, stating, "J'entends que le PSG serait meilleur sans Kylian Mbappé, mais on pourrait dire aussi qu'il est meilleur sans le Paris-Saint-Germain." This translates to, "I hear that PSG would be better without Kylian Mbappé, but one could also say that he is better without Paris Saint-Germain." These remarks have reignited discussions across social media platforms.

Reflecting on the current state of PSG, Lizarazu noted that since the exit of Mbappé, the team has shown marked improvement. He elaborated on this by saying, "Ces petites piques à l’encontre du meilleur buteur de l’histoire du club, après sept années de vie commune, ne sont pas très élégantes. Lui et le PSG n’avaient tout simplement plus rien à partager," meaning, "These little digs against the club's all-time top scorer, after seven years together, are not very elegant. He and PSG simply had nothing left to share." Lizarazu asserts that both parties have grown apart, suggesting a healthy separation.

The thrust of Lizarazu's argument centers around the notion that both Mbappé and PSG have benefited from this split. Since his departure, PGS has managed to play as a cohesive unit, shedding the shadow that Mbappé's presence had cast over the squad. Meanwhile, the young forward, with 26 matches and 20 goals to his name this season, has begun to rediscover his form at Real Madrid, albeit slowly.

Lizarazu pointed out that Mbappé's adaptability to new surroundings in Spain has been gradual, leading some to speculate about whether the separation may have been a necessary step for both the player and the club. Observers have noted that with fewer distractions, PSG’s players appear more committed and focused on the team's goals. This newfound cohesion has led to better performances on the pitch, a sentiment that Lizarazu echoes.

However, the media frenzy surrounding Mbappé's departure persists, with varying opinions on the matter. Football fans and analysts alike continue to debate who bears the most responsibility for the breakup: the player or the management of PSG. Many weigh in, arguing that the approach utilized by both sides contributed to the tensions resulting in Mbappé’s exit.

What remains central in this discussion is Lizarazu's contention that PSG’s fortunes may actually have brightened without their once-pivotal star. This transformation raises questions not just about the effectiveness of the current team but also about the weight of expectations placed upon star players.

As football often does, the narrative around Kylian Mbappé and PSG has shifted swiftly, and the unfolding saga serves as a reminder of the transient nature of sport. Stars rise and fall, teams evolve, and the stories behind the glories and struggles of iconic franchises can change in the blink of an eye.

In conclusion, whether fans believe Mbappé or PSG has emerged victorious in their new paths, Lizarazu's insight adds an intriguing dimension to the ongoing discussion, encouraging a deeper examination of how both entities have indeed progressed post-separation. As the seasons unfold, the perspectives of ex-players like Lizarazu will continue to shape public understanding of the game, unearthing vital lessons about growth, collaboration, and the inevitable changes that define the world of football.