Kylian Mbappé's current predicament is unusual, to say the least. While his Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) teammates are engaged in matches abroad, he's training solo. The football world is abuzz with speculation about where he'll play his first game of the season. Will he remain at PSG, transfer to Real Madrid, or make a surprising move to Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal?

Japanese fans were undoubtedly let down when Mbappé was excluded from PSG's pre-season tour. Now, PSG supporters are facing the possibility of a similar disappointment when the French champions kick off their league campaign on August 12th.

The core issue is a contract stalemate between the 24-year-old star and PSG. After years of accommodating star players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Neymar, PSG seems determined to hold its ground against Mbappé's demands. Mbappé, in turn, is equally resolute in controlling his own destiny.

Having declined a 12-month extension on his contract, which expires next June, Mbappé has until Monday to reconsider. However, a change of heart appears improbable. He has expressed his intention to play this season with PSG and then depart, potentially joining Real Madrid on a free transfer. This scenario would allow Madrid to offer him a substantial signing bonus and a hefty salary.

PSG's stance is firm: Mbappé must either accept the current extension, agree to a new contract, or be prepared for a sale. This has paved the way for Al-Hilal's record-breaking $332 million bid – a staggering sum, especially for a player in his contract's final year. This dwarfs Real Madrid's 2021 offer of $200 million.

Saudi Arabia's financial clout is undeniable, attracting numerous European players with exorbitant salaries. Cristiano Ronaldo, for instance, reportedly earns up to $200 million annually. These investments in sports, including the LIV Golf tour and a Formula One race, are part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's strategy to diversify the economy and create opportunities. However, critics argue these efforts are merely "sportswashing" – attempts to improve the kingdom's image in the face of human rights concerns.

After failing to secure Lionel Messi, who opted for Inter Miami, Al-Hilal has set its sights on Mbappé. However, it's doubtful Mbappé will be tempted just yet. Unlike Ronaldo and Messi, who have amassed numerous Champions League titles and Ballon d'Or awards, Mbappé has yet to achieve these milestones. Having scored a hat trick in last year's World Cup final, he appears driven to conquer European football's pinnacle, making Real Madrid a more likely destination.

PSG could attempt to pressure Mbappé by sidelining him at the start of the season. However, considering their narrow league victory last season, this tactic seems precarious and could alienate fans. It could also create a challenging environment for new PSG coach Luis Enrique. As Mbappé continues his solitary training, the transfer saga unfolds, promising further drama until a resolution is reached.