PSG’s Turning Point in European Football
In May 2023, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) marked a significant turning point in its quest for European glory. Having long dominated the domestic landscape, the club found itself grappling with the stark reality of failure in their pursuit of the UEFA Champions League. Despite the acquisition of superstar Lionel Messi in August 2021 on a free transfer, the club’s ambitions remained elusive, as the presence of Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Neymar seemed to complicate rather than enhance team dynamics.
Champions League Victory
Fast forward two years, PSG finally clinched the coveted title, defeating Inter Milan 5-0 in Munich last month. Under the astute guidance of coach Luis Enrique and driven by a rejuvenated Ousmane Dembele, PSG’s vision now looks promising for future triumphs. However, this commendable success comes on the heels of a much-needed cultural overhaul initiated following a disappointing defeat against Lorient towards the end of the 2022-23 season that centered around Messi’s controversial absence from training.
Messi’s Controversial Absence
Following a game where Messi played the entirety, he chose to skip the following day’s training for a sanctioned commitment in Saudi Arabia, leading to a two-week suspension from PSG. The management viewed this as a troubling sign that key players might prioritize personal interests over team loyalty. The fallout from this incident prompted PSG to reassess its internal culture, reinforcing the notion that no individual is above the club.
End of an Era
After this divisive incident, Messi did not renew his contract, which expired, marking an end to his turbulent tenure at PSG. The Argentinian’s departure, propelled by a challenging transition from Barcelona, was underscored by his emotional farewell in Catalonia, where he established his legendary status. As PSG swooped in to sign him on considerably lower wages than he previously earned in Spain, the club’s dynamic reshuffled, with Mbappe emerging as the focal point in Paris.
Mixed Results and Global Impact
Messi’s time at PSG yielded mixed results; his impressive tally of 32 goals and 35 assists in 75 appearances, while notable, fell short of his legendary output from Barcelona, where he registered nearly 1,000 goal contributions. While he contributed to PSG’s domestic victories, his quest for UEFA Champions League success remained unfulfilled, a reality that would ultimately define his legacy in the French capital.
Nevertheless, Messi inadvertently elevated PSG’s global profile, contributing approximately €10 million in direct revenues and stimulating sponsorship growth, with major brands eager to align with PSG during his brief stay. Even as PSG reflects on potential earlier changes to their clubhouse culture, they now regard the fallout from Messi’s Saudi trip as a catalyst that ultimately pushed them towards necessary reforms.
Messi’s New Chapter
As PSG bask in their recent successes, Messi begins a different chapter in Miami, where he enjoys a more tranquil life away from the media spotlight. He has built a close-knit circle of friends, including former Barcelona teammates and has taken on an influential role with Inter Miami, helping propel the club’s revenue to new heights and establishing its valuation at $1 billion. This weekend, Messi will face his former club PSG as they meet in Atlanta, reigniting discussions about his controversial past in Paris as he embarks on new endeavors both on and off the pitch. As he transitions into a post-playing role, his legacy in the world of football remains profoundly impactful.
