Several French national team players are facing key decisions regarding their kit sponsorships as existing contracts near their expiration dates, with significant financial and strategic implications for both players and brands. The timing coincides with the approaching end of the club season and the upcoming international competitions, creating a complex landscape governed by specific regulations.
According to L’Équipe, a player whose contract with a brand – designated as ‘A’ – is expiring cannot enter negotiations with a competing brand (‘B’ or ‘C’) until the day after the initial contract ends. Furthermore, they are prohibited from committing to a new brand for six months and are obligated to inform ‘A’ of any offers received from ‘B’ or ‘C’ during that period, giving ‘A’ a right to match any competing offer.
Kylian Mbappé’s deal with Nike is set to expire on July 31st, and he will be unable to sign with another brand until 2027 should he choose to explore other options. Désiré Doué has already resolved his situation, signing with Nike two months ago in a deal reportedly worth several million euros, establishing him as one of the American brand’s highest-paid athletes. Ousmane Dembélé, the Ballon d’Or winner, has two years remaining on his contract with Adidas.
The primary focus is on Mbappé’s next move, with Nike facing the potential loss of its highest-profile athlete. While Nike is considered the frontrunner with a reported 50% chance of retaining Mbappé, there is also significant interest from a currently unnamed brand outside of traditional football sponsorships. This potential suitor is reportedly prioritizing innovation alongside financial compensation, potentially offering Mbappé a stake in the brand’s development, similar to Roger Federer’s partnership with ON or Michael Jordan’s with Nike. Nike could offer Mbappé around 20 million euros annually, surpassing Erling Haaland’s current deal.
Rayan Cherki’s five-year contract with Adidas also expires this summer. Puma is reportedly prepared to make a strong push to sign the Manchester City player, potentially offering a contract worth between 3 and 4 million euros per season, which would place Cherki among the top ten highest-paid players sponsored by kit manufacturers. Adidas recently increased its focus on Cherki, but it remains to be seen if this will be enough to secure his continued loyalty.
Michael Olise, the Bayern Munich winger, presents a unique case, currently operating without a dedicated sponsorship deal at age 24. He has been training with unmarked white Nike boots, which L’Équipe reports are custom-made by the company, raising speculation that Nike may be attempting to secure his signature despite his reluctance to adhere to the typical demands of sponsorship agreements. He was seen wearing Nike boots during France’s recent match against the Ivory Coast.
