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    Soccer News: Pochettino insists that he did not hear Mbappe’s taunts in PSG’s victory over Strasbourg

    Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino insists he didn’t hear the taunts of Kylian Mbappe before and during Saturday’s 4-2 Ligue 1 win against Strasbourg.

    Mbappe – in his 150th appearance in Ligue 1 – was a reference for PSG at the Parc des Princes, getting an assist for Julian Draxler and also finding the net with a massive deflection from Ludovic Ajorque in the first half.

    He was a regular threat to the Strasbourg defense but will likely be frustrated at not adding any more goals as he was denied by Matz Sels twice in the second period.

    Despite consistently being the greatest danger in a PSG side that vanished badly in the second half and saw his 3-0 lead narrowed to 3-2, Mbappe was targeted by certain sections of the crowd.

    The French international is in the last year of his contract with the club, and although president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said Mbappe had no reason not to extend his contract following the signing of Lionel Messi, a deal still eludes PSG as Real Madrid club.

    However, Pochettino is convinced that Mbappe remains fully focused.

    “Kylian is focused on our goals. He did well and I am very happy with his performance. It must continue like this, “said Pochettino.

    “I have not heard the whistles against Mbappé”.

    At the start of the evening, all cheers for the fans in the Parc des Princes, which welcomed a large crowd for the first time since February 2020. Those present saw Messi for the first time after his arrival from Barcelona.

    Messi and his new signings mates, including former Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos, were presented on the pitch before the game to a thunderous ovation, even though neither actually played.

    Pochettino would have liked to join the celebrations.

    “It was a great day for the PSG family, there was a great atmosphere,” said Pochettino.

    “I was not present during the presentation of the purchases, but the feedback we received was incredible.

    “All players need to feel this affection from the fans. I want to congratulate the whole club again. We experienced something moving. I would have preferred to be outside the locker room to live this experience.

    “It’s always nice to see our fans up close. Football is different with the public. A year and a half later, I feel good. “

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