Kylian Mbappé reveals he nearly joined Arsenal before PSG switch | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappé has revealed his admiration for Arsène Wenger – and explained how he nearly joined Arsenal to play for him.

The teenager was in demand after guiding Monaco to Ligue 1 glory in 2017, but despite talks taking place, he opted to sign for PSG instead.

Mbappé has since enjoyed huge success for both club and country, including winning the World Cup in Russia this summer.

“Wenger is a French football monument who left Arsenal,” he told France Football. “I don’t see many people in this world being viewed in such a unanimous way.

“When the entirety of Europe gets on its knees in front of him to celebrate him, that certainly means something.

“A little while ago, before I signed for PSG, we were in contact in 2017. I chose a different direction but he wasn’t annoyed at me.

“He was a gentleman about it and wished me good luck.”

Mbappé was then asked about Unai Emery and how he has taken to life in north London after replacing Wenger in May.

“I do not forget that he helped me adapt to this big team, which was not easy. I have a lot of respect for this man.

“He won titles before and I hope he wins them again after. I sent him a congratulatory message when he signed for Arsenal, and now I am following from afar.”

The Gunners are currently 19 matches unbeaten as they travel to Old Trafford on Wednesday.