“He Suffered an Emotional Shock”: FC Barcelona Legend Explains Lionel Messi’s Poor Run at PSG

Lionel Messi made history again after winning his record-extending seventh Ballon d’Or last year. His performances for FC Barcelona last season elevated his already sky-high standards a lot more, and people expected big things from him this season too.

However, it all went wrong as the Argentinian forward couldn’t sign with the club again due to La Liga regulations. He joined the French club, Paris Saint Germain, to team up with superstars like Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappe, but has failed to keep his output on the same level as the season before.

Thierry Henry explains why Lionel Messi might be struggling at PSG

Joining a new club can be hard for most people and it would be even harder for someone like Messi, who spent his entire professional career at Barcelona. Recently, former Arsenal and Barca legend, Thierry Henry, spoke to L’Equipe about Messi’s form this season and explained how emotional vulnerability affects a footballer’s output.

He also drew parallels to his own transfer to Barcelona after leaving Arsenal. Henry revealed that he was injured when he joined the club and it took him an entire year to get used to the system at the club and perform well.

“He left Barcelona crying. He suffered an emotional shock because he did not expect to have to leave. People say that he has everything in Paris, but it’s not that obvious. When I left Arsenal for Barca, it took me a year to get well. I arrived injured, after a divorce, and I had to learn a new game system,” Henry said.

Henry shows his support for PSG star Neymar Jr.

Henry also talked about the fact that PSG forward Neymar Jr. recently opened up about his mental health. As Neymar revealed his struggles, Henry further highlighted how footballers didn’t have the same support to do so when he was playing.

“He has talked about well-being and my perception is: can we listen to him? He has asked for help because he has problems, like any human being. Today a footballer can open up much more, fortunately. Before, one did not comment that he was not mentally fit,” Henry added.

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With half the season done and dusted, do you think Messi can resurrect from his current slumber and remind everyone why he is one of, if not the best player in the world?