Pokes28
Well-Known Member
Mbappe is 18, Dembele is 20. Both are listed at 5'10" tall. Mbappe is 20 pounds heavier which means he's more likely to be able to hold up better with the physical play of the PL. If for no other reason than that Mbappe has played with Silva and Mendy and they already have a chemistry together from last season, I think the transition would be easier for him.
As far as a guarantee, there is none on any transfer. Paying a huge purchase price never guarantees success. If it did, players like Torres wouldn't have sucked at Chelsea, Di Maria wouldn't have been poor for the rags.
People need to remember that there are multiple aspects of this. First, assembling the best team possible. Second, financial ramifications both short term and long term. Third, playing a bit of keep-away from other clubs that are trying to win the same trophies your team is. So taking this in order: First: Mbappe is considered a world class talent. I don't know that he's a Pep type player, but I'm assuming Pep does. Second: yes he will cost a fortune both in purchase price and in wages. However he is also a very marketable player. And if he is the piece that pushes City to a CL final, the added value is way beyond numbers any of us can imagine. Third: if we view Real as our primary rival for champions league glory, then keeping him away from them is a good thing.
Also remember this: 2018 is a World Cup year. That means that teams will have to wait longer to conduct their business and they are likely to fall trap to the hot player. James Rodriguez is a prime example of this. Good player, sure. But he has never lived up to the hype that he received for winning the golden boot 3 years ago. Now Real would like to find somebody to buy him. Next season, teams that need to make moves find it tougher. Costs will be higher and the return on investment will be lower. So if you have the chance to make the purchase now, you do it.