Mbappe: PSG not the same without Neymar

Kylian Mbappe admitted Ligue 1 champion Paris Saint-Germain cannot be the same without Neymar amid growing speculation over his future.

Neymar has been linked to former club Barcelona and LaLiga giant Real Madrid, and he was absent as PSG opened its title defence with a 3-0 win over Nimes on Sunday.

PSG's sporting director Leonardo hinted Neymar – who cost a world-record €222million to land from Barca in 2017 – could be close to leaving the French capital.

Asked if PSG can improve this season, star team-mate Mbappe told Canal+: "It depends, we will try.

"But we will not lie; we must also see what will happen with Neymar. It's not the same team without Neymar as it is with him. But we will try to do it for the fans."

Neymar has scored 34 goals in 37 Ligue 1 appearances despite both his seasons at PSG being interrupted by serious foot injuries.

PSG and Brazil team-mate Marquinhos played down the speculation as he preferred to focus on football.

"Everyone is focused on our game, and our philosophy," Marquinhos added via Canal+. "The rest, we leave it to the board and Neymar.

"They know very well what to do. We really have to think about the pitch, not the transfers."

"I want Neymar to stay at PSG" - Verratti

Marco Verratti wants Neymar to stay at Paris Saint-Germain amid reports the star forward is set for an exit from the Ligue 1 champions.

Neymar missed PSG's 3-0 win over Nimes on Sunday, with his move from the Parc des Princes amid speculations over his future.

Still, the Brazil international was targeted by supporters, who called for the 27-year-old to leave the club.

"I didn't listen to that. Supporters can say what they think," the midfielder said, via L'Equipe.

"We are very close to Ney. He is a player who gave a lot to Paris. Last year, he scored in important moments.

"As soon as he played, we only talked about him because he is an incredible player who excites everyone.

"I think for him it's good if things are clear, if he stays or if he leaves. These are things he will manage with the club, but I want him to stay."