Mbappe admits his mother almost steered him to Liverpool

Kylian Mbappe revealed that in 2017 he was on the brink of swapping his Monaco breakthrough for a move to Liverpool, the Premier League club his mother adored. The France international said his mum’s affection for Anfield made the Merseyside side the favourite destination, even as PSG prepared a loan that would later become a €180 million permanent transfer.

Mother's Merseyside dream

Mbappe told The Athletic, “I was close to Liverpool. My mum was a big fan of Jurgen Klopp and the favourite destination for my mum was Liverpool.” He added that his mother visited the city, the stadium and met club staff, describing Anfield as “a wonderful club, everybody’s so kind, it’s a family club, a big club.”

She even watched a few games alone to soak up the atmosphere, imagining her son on the Kop. The visit cemented her belief that Liverpool was the ideal place for her boy.

Mbappe recalled, “We were on the plane turning round and round while he (Klopp) explained his project. I was convinced by Klopp’s project but I had other things, other projects, that are also good.”

PSG clinches the signing

The France forward had become the most sought‑after young talent after a spectacular breakout season at Monaco, attracting interest from across Europe. His pace and goal‑scoring record made him a prime target for top clubs.

In 2017 Paris Saint‑Germain secured him on an initial season‑long loan, before making the deal permanent a year later for a colossal €180 million (£165 million). The fee set a new benchmark for teenage transfers.

Mbappe went on to win six Ligue 1 titles with PSG and reached the Champions League final in 2020, finishing as runners‑up. He left the French capital for Real Madrid in June 2024, ending a seven‑year spell in Paris.

The interview, published by The Athletic, leaves Liverpool supporters to wonder how the club’s fortunes might have differed had the deal materialised. For now, the Merseyside dream remains a tantalising what‑if in the player’s career narrative.