FC Barcelona had been eliminated from the Champions League early.
After training, Li Mingyu sat down in front of the television, ready to get a good look at Atletico Madrid's form. After all, the two teams would face off in a do-or-die match in three days.
From the very start of the match, Atletico Madrid came out aggressively. Having already conceded a goal, they needed to score as soon as possible.
Paris Saint-Germain, on the other hand, took their time. With an away goal under their belts, they weren't worried at all. They pulled their defensive line well back and left Mbappe alone near the center circle, making Atletico Madrid's defenders hesitate to push forward.
Not yet 23 years old, Mbappe was already the most valuable player in the world.
His market value of 180 million euros said it all.
His outstanding physicality, explosive acceleration, and precise finishing had made Mbappe the next Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo in the eyes of the top clubs.
But Paris Saint-Germain had deep pockets and didn't need the money, so it would be difficult for any team to offer a price that would tempt Mbappe.
Still, young Mbappe's contract was set to expire in the summer of 2022. If he still couldn't see a chance to win the Champions League this year, he might choose to join a team where he could earn more honors.
But Paris Saint-Germain had already offered Mbappe a staggering contract: a net annual salary of 30 million euros.
The offer was a crushing blow to Real Madrid, who wanted to sign Mbappe to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.
Real Madrid had let Cristiano Ronaldo go in the first place because they weren't willing to give him a higher salary.
A salary of 30 million euros a year was on par with