Exclusion of Mbappe, Neymar, and Verratti from PSG Squad Before Lorient Match

Paris Saint-Germain excluded Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, and Marco Verrati from its squad in preparation for the upcoming match against Lorient as the team begins its defense of the French Ligue 1 title today, raising doubts about the future of the trio in the French capital. The relationship between Mbappe and the club has soured since the striker refused to renew his contract, which expires at the end of the 2023-2024 season. The club had previously excluded the French international from its squad for the Asian tour held last month in preparation for the new season. Mbappe is among several players expected to leave the club during the current transfer window, which closes in early September. French media reported that the club deemed it unnecessary to utilize the efforts of Brazilian Neymar and Italian midfielder Verrati. Last week, Paris Saint-Germain announced that Neymar is suffering from a viral infection.