‘We’re not a couple but almost!’ - Kylian Mbappe’s rift with Luis Enrique hilariously rubbished as PSG boss doubles down on ‘very close’ relationship with star forward

Mbappe's 25th birthday coincides with PSG's Ligue 1 match against Metz at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday, with the France international having already scored 16 league goals in 15 outings this season. According to reports last week, Mbappe's relationship with Enrique has worsened, but the Spaniard maintains he wants to see the former Monaco forward continue to make waves in Paris.

"As always, we have a perfect relationship. We’re not a couple but almost. Mainly because he’s the one who doesn’t want to (laughs)." said Enrique at his pre-match press conference. "I don’t know why you keep asking me this question. I’m very close to most of my players. With Kylian from the start, we have always been close. He is someone who makes jokes, and always smiles. I am delighted with him and not only with Kylian but with everyone, even if I know that the players who play less are a little less happy. We have always been very close with Kylian."

He continued: "He’s really super young. He is my son’s age. I hope he will still have a lot of success, full of success, both individually and as a team. I hope it will be here at PSG, I hope we can help him develop in his career. His level is fantastic and now that I have the opportunity to know him as a person, it’s really great to have a player like him in your squad, for what he brings. Kylian’s numbers are truly very impressive. He is at the top of world football."

The French World Cup winner has long been linked with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid ever since his rise to fame but situations have made certain that the move has not materialized. Yet again the 24-year-old has been linked with a move to the Spanish capital but it had earlier been reported that Los Blancos are tired of the constant pursuit of the superstar who does not push for the move.

The World Cup Golden Boot winner will once again spearhead the Parisians' attack when they take on Metz as they look to extend their lead at the top of the Ligue 1 table.