Explained: Why Kylian Mbappe is not right for Man City & Pep Guardiola as fellow World Cup winner discusses ‘confusion’ transfer to Premier League champions would cause

The Paris Saint-Germain superstar continues to see questions asked of his future after refusing to extend a contract at Parc des Princes that is due to expire next summer. The expectation is that Mbappe will be on the move in 2024.

Real Madrid have been leading the race for his signature, but any issues there could leave the door open for other suitors – including heavyweight outfits in England. City boast the ambition and spending power to compete for Mbappe, but both player and club have been warned against such a move.

Former France international Desailly, who savoured World Cup glory in 1998, has told Gambling Zone of a potential move to Manchester for Mbappe: “I know [Gael] Clichy said he’d thrive at City, but It won't be easy if Mbappe goes to City. It sounds strange, but I don't think Mbappe is meant to play for City. There is too much discipline. In France, we say that the way City play doesn't leave much room for individuals. With all their passing, they don't really suit players who want to take defenders on. They pass, they move. [Bernardo] Silva and [Jack] Grealish both have the ability to play number ten, but that's been killed by [Pep] Guardiola's philosophy. He wants them to stay on their side, get the ball, show speed, play the balls, and receive the ball back, and play one-twos. Mbappe doesn't do that. He uses the ball to make the difference. The other players will look at him with confusion as he's not supposed to do that! There'll be a drop in his confidence if he doesn't start well there, either. He's a top player, but not a Man City player.”

Mbappe has continued to give little away when it comes to his long-term future plans, with the 24-year-old forward yet to reveal whether his career will continue in France beyond the end of this season or whether a new challenge will be taken on in 2024-25.