Clash Post-Game Meeting Devoid of Affection: Messi Faces PSG
Heated Rivalry Renewed: Messi vs. PSG in the Club World Cup
Two years late, the feud between soccer superstar Lionel Messi and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) reignites in the World Club Cup. The French media has been eagerly anticipating this clash, rummaging through Messi's grudges - from squabbles with neighbors to unrecognized World Cup triumphs with Argentina, and a bitter breakup that few wish to revisit: "It was two years where I wasn't happy." Messi's ex-partner offered an early welcome, sending well-wishes on Messi's 38th birthday, complete with photos of a joyful Messi adorned in the Paris Saint-Germain jersey and training suit.
3️⃣8️⃣ today 🎂Happy birthday Leo Messi! See you on Sunday. 👀👋️ pic.twitter.com/Gkx8a32mP2
Forced Encounter: Neutral Ground Showdown
This rematch won't take place in Messi's new home of Miami but instead in Atlanta. According to France's Le Figaro, "the reunion between Lionel Messi and PSG could be frosty." Spain's sports newspaper Marca speculates, "Messi versus Luis Enrique, Inter Miami versus PSG, the hottest game of the Club World Cup."
Miami in the World Cup: The Messi Factor
Two teams step onto the field, each with defined roles. Inter, co-owned by David Beckham, is sixth in the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer. They sit at the Club World Cup thanks to winning the Supporters' Shield award the previous year, a testament to their success in the regular MLS season.
While they face tough opposition, Inter's place in the tournament is owing, in part, to their star player's talents. Messi has scored 50 goals in 62 games for Inter Miami. Sportswise, Messi and company are underdogs, but their determination and resilience are undeniable.
Old Friend, New Challenge
Paris Saint-Germain has emerged as a European football powerhouse in the post-Messi era, led by coach Luis Enrique. Their Champions League victory against Inter Milan last year demonstrated their prowess. Under Enrique's leadership, Paris is no longer watched by Messi, Neymar, or Mbappé. Instead, it thrives under the leadership of Enrique himself.
Inter Miami's coach, Javier Mascherano, played under Enrique at FC Barcelona alongside Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba. The three of them, along with Sergio Busquets, formed an undeniable force, winning the Champions League Final in Berlin against Juventus ten years ago. Messi too spoke highly of Luis Enrique, once naming him, alongside Pep Guardiola, the best coach he had ever played for.
The Wrath of Messi?
The Messi-PSG pairing brings back cherished memories, but also lingering darkness. Messi's performance with PSG was subpar compared to his Barcelona days, scoring 32 goals in 75 appearances. His average rate was almost half that of his time at Barcelona. Yet, he was welcomed as a savior following his departure from Barcelona and the team's dire financial situation. The fans, however, never offered their affection, even booing him during his last match.
"It's better for us if Messi plays with anger," insists coach Mascherano. With his contract expiring at the end of the year, Inter Miami is eager to extend his stay, but recent rumors of a potential move to Saudi Arabia might expedite discussions. Two years ago, Al-Hilal tried to lure Messi with a staggering billion offer, a league in which his rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, was already playing. But the move didn’t materialize, partly due to family reasons.
The PSG Advantage: A Seamless Transition
With the exception of their superstars, PSG has become the pulsating heart of European football, leaving legends like Messi behind. They've managed to achieve what Messi, Neymar, and Mbappé failed to: becoming the epitome of European and potentially global football under the stewardship of Luis Enrique. With Messi's participation in the Club World Cup, his past in Paris may once again be a point of contention.
- In the Club World Cup, Messi's former team, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), will face Inter Miami, where Messi now plays, marking a notable clash between European leagues and sports analysis.
- Despite their current roles, Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham, and Paris Saint-Germain have a shared history, with Javier Mascherano, Inter's current coach, playing under Luis Enrique at FC Barcelona.
- Messi's performance with Paris Saint-Germain was not as impressive as his time at FC Barcelona, but his potential move to Saudi Arabia could complicate his existing contract with Inter Miami.
