Erling Haaland's record contract pushes Kylian Mbappé to quit Nike

In the corridors of Nike's headquarters in Beaverton, Kylian Mbappé's files now lie sealed. After more than a decade of partnership, the official split was confirmed, the breaking point being March 31, 2023, when Nike offered Erling Haaland a €227 million ten‑year contract.

The proposed salary, €22.7 million per season, far exceeded what Mbappé was earning, the brand's emblematic figure for more than ten years. His entourage saw this gap as a signal of a change of direction.

Following this gap, Nike refocused its strategy on young prodigies, signing notably the promising Désiré Doué and full‑back Nuno Mendes. This shift aimed to refresh the brand's image with consumers.

Nike bets on young talent

Kylian Mbappé's camp surveyed several rivals, including adidas, New Balance and Under Armour, before opting for the Swiss brand On. In addition to an ambassador contract, Mbappé becomes a shareholder, hoping to thrust On onto the forefront of the football scene.

Recent sales of Mbappé‑related products have dropped, while Vinicius Jr items have sold better. Custom‑name requests for Mbappé have also decreased in the French Football Federation's stores.

After a final extension tied to the 2026 World Cup, the partnership with Nike has definitively ended. Mbappé is now embarking on a new challenge, helping On compete with the giants Nike and adidas.