In a major interview with “RMC Sport”, PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi took a big swing – and also addressed Lionel Messi directly
Lionel Messi and Paris Saint-Germain have not really parted on good terms. At least that’s something the 2022 Argentine world champion has emphasized publicly on several occasions in the recent past. In September 2023, for example, Messi complained that he was “the only player at the World Cup” who “didn’t get any recognition from his club”. After the final victory against France (4:2 in a penalty shoot-out), he was not given enough credit.
Just one of several examples. The response from PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, who launched into a verbal all-out attack on “RMC Sport” on Tuesday, was unequivocal. “I have great respect for him, but if someone talks badly about Paris Saint-Germain after his departure, that’s not right. That’s not respect,” the 50-year-old made clear in the direction of the new Inter Miami superstar. “He’s not a bad lad, but I don’t like it. I’m not just saying that for him, but for everyone. You talk when you’re there, not when you’re away. That’s not our style. “
Al-Khelaifi was no doubt also referring to Neymar. The Brazilian had declared – also last September – that he had “gone through hell” with Messi at PSG. Messi had had to leave PSG “in a way that he didn’t deserve”. At times, the Argentine was booed by his own fans.
The lack of gratitude from the superstars is obviously a thorn in Al-Khelaifi’s side. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why, after transfers such as those of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar, Messi and Kylian Mbappé, whom he is determined to keep, he is now deliberately changing course. The Qatari businessman openly admits: “We no longer need stars. We need players who respect our shirt, who respect the club and who give their all for the Paris Saint-Germain crest. “