
via Imago
Frisco, Texas, United States: Miami s captain Lionel Messi in action during the Leagues Cup match between FC Dallas and Inter Miami played at Toyota Stadium on Sunday August 6, 2023. Frisco USA – ZUMAe321 0301266371st Copyright: xJavierxVicenciox

via Imago
Frisco, Texas, United States: Miami s captain Lionel Messi in action during the Leagues Cup match between FC Dallas and Inter Miami played at Toyota Stadium on Sunday August 6, 2023. Frisco USA – ZUMAe321 0301266371st Copyright: xJavierxVicenciox
When Lionel Messi signed as a free agent for Paris Saint Germain, the Ligue 1 giants thought that they had pulled off quite the coup. Although the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was focused on delivering his new colors, he struggled to make the desired impact for the Parisians. Messi did register 32 goals and 35 assists for PSG during his two-year stint, but according to PSG Ultra’s chief, his time at the French capital was linked to ‘merchandising,’ rather than his on-field performances.
The fans of PSG were seemingly disappointed regarding Messi’s comments about the club recently and reportedly descended upon Miami recently to express their discontent with the Argentine.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
PSG Ultras chief clarified why it didn’t work for Lionel Messi at PSG
PSG Ultras are known as the most representative and radical fans throughout the soccer world. The Ultras have often displayed their wrath against opposition and surprisingly sometimes at their own players at Parc des Prince. With both Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. heading away from Paris Saint Germain after their tenure, the ultras have labeled both the stars as ‘mercenaries,’ and showed their discontent towards them.
As reported by Clarin, Romain Mabille, president of the PSG Ultras, gave his statements regarding the situation faced by Messi and Neymar at PSG. He said, “I am delighted that Messi is gone and so is Neymar. I have no hatred for those players, but Messi is part of a time that did not work and related more to the club’s merchandising than anything else.“

via Imago
Lionel Messi in action during the Ligue 1 Uber eats match between PSG and Olympique Lyonnais at the Parc des Princes, 2 April 2023
“We can’t play with those kinds of players. There is no hatred, but both he and Neymar had to leave for the good of the club and start again.”
Lionel Messi was booed and jeered by PSG fans following the team’s exits from the Champions League over the past two seasons. Messi previously stated about his experience at Parc des Prince, as he said that he felt ‘fractured’ with a significant group of PSG supporters. He also stated that he didn’t feel happy at the club and never wanted to join them in the first place.
PSG fans storm Miami with disrespectful banner aimed at the Argentine star
Lionel Messi joined David Beckham’s MLS project this summer as soon as his contract with the Parisians ran down. Already shining at Inter Miami and leading them towards their first-ever Leagues Cup triumph, he has found his magical feet once again. However, a few diehard PSG fans decided to take their grievances against Messi to the United States and staged protests against him.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad

via Imago
MLS, Fussball Herren, USA Leagues Cup Semifinal-Inter Miami CF at Philadelphia Union Aug 15, 2023 Chester, PA, USA Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi 10 reacts after missing a shot against the Philadelphia Union the second half at Subaru Park. Chester Subaru Park PA USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xBillxStreicherx 20230815_jcd_sq4_0227
In the photographs circulating on social media, ahead of Messi’s home debut in the MLS, some PSG fans brought along a large banner along with them, sporting the slogan: “MESSI: FINALLY RID OF THE RUDE!” They appeared to be holding the banner with the slogan outside Inter Miami’s DRV PNK Stadium.
It is believed that the same banner was displayed by ultras at their home ground, Parc des Prince, in protest of Neymar Jr, who also departed for Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal this summer.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Both Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. have found their paths apart from the French capital. They’ll be aiming to bring glory to their current colors and enjoy their time on the pitch. Lionel Messi will be next in action for Inter Miami again when they visit BMO Stadium to face Los Angeles FC (LAFC) on Sunday, September 3rd.
WATCH THIS STORY: Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Make a Huge Assist for Esports Space
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT