Kylian Mbappe, aged 25, was honored as France’s player of the year during an awards ceremony held in Paris.
This marks the fifth consecutive time that Mbappe has received the prestigious title for being the best player in Ligue 1 at the UNFP Trophies gala. Throughout the season, he showcased his exceptional skills by scoring an impressive total of 44 goals in all competitions for Paris Saint-Germain.
Recently, the France captain confirmed his departure from PSG at the end of the season when his contract expires. It is widely anticipated that Real Madrid will be his next destination. Mbappe expressed his sentiments about this transition, stating, “It signifies the end of a chapter in my life, a turning page.
Ligue 1 has always held a significant place in my career, being the only league I have been a part of until now. I have always strived to represent this league with honor. Undoubtedly, I will miss it. However, I am excited for what lies ahead, as it marks a new and thrilling chapter.”
Mbappe bid farewell to the PSG fans during his final home game on Sunday, where he scored a goal despite the team’s unexpected 3-1 defeat against Toulouse. With 27 goals in Ligue 1 this season, he currently holds a lead of eight goals over the second-highest scorer, Jonathan David of Lille.
Although the season is not yet over, Mbappe and PSG have two more Ligue 1 matches to play this week, followed by the French Cup final against Lyon on May 25th. Mbappe’s outstanding performance and popularity among his fellow players led to his victory in the award, which was voted for by his peers and presented by Marie-Jose Perec, the former French Olympic champion in the 200m and 400m events.
Among the other nominees were Mbappe’s PSG teammate Ousmane Dembele, Pierre Lees-Melou from Brest, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Marseille, and Edon Zhegrova from Lille.
Brest’s remarkable achievement of securing European qualification for the first time in their history has earned Eric Roy the title of coach of the year. Leading the modest Brittany club, Roy’s exceptional guidance has ensured their guaranteed finish of at least fifth place, securing them a spot in the Europa League.