Paris Saint-Germain was tipped to achieve remarkable success by having Lionel Messi and Neymar in their attacking ranks. Ultimately, things didn’t pan out as anticipated for the star duo, leading to their departure from the Parisian outfit. Even though the two made remarkable contributions in securing silverware and scoring goals, criticism surfaced regarding them for not being fully ‘invested in the club.’
Renowned journalist Dave Appadoo has shed light on how PSG looks significantly proportional to the exit of big names. Speaking in an interview with Daily Mail and as compiled by le10sport, he said, “In the past, PSG was a Harlem Globetrotters club. There were superstars, but they were not involved or invested in the club.”
Appadoo pointed out PSG’s unhealthy dynamic with past star signings, noting that big names arriving in clubs like Real Madrid, both Manchester clubs or Bayern Munich are honored to be there. However, at PSG, it’s rather the club itself that feels obliged to have them. The France Football journalist further highlighted the change in the current side under Luis Enrique, who is loved by fans and media alike. Additionally, the Ligue 1 side has brought in players who are not only good but don’t possess ego.
“There are no more divas, no more emotional drama queens. The new structure of the locker room, with a good coach who has clear ideas about football, made this change possible,” added Appadoo. Clearly, the journalist aims to make a subtle dig at previous star signings of PSG, including Messi and Neymar, who didn’t work in favor of the French club.
While ardent Parisians would be pleased to see the departure of the former Catalan duo, a rival star suggests that it could have negative implications for Ligue 1.
Lionel Messi and Neymar’s departure will ‘hurt’ Ligue 1
Soon, Kylian Mbappe will be the latest PSG star to leave the French league to fulfill his dream move to Real Madrid. His departure is a significant setback for PSG but also for Ligue 1, according to Montpellier winger Arnaud Nordin. In an interview with le10sport, he said, “It has already hurt us to lose Neymar, Messi, or even, a few years ago, Zlatan. Of course. In Ligue 1, we want to have the best.”
Yet, Nordin concedes to Mbappe’s pursuit of his aspirations. While reluctantly backing Mbappe for his departure, the rival star recognized the World Cup winner’s contributions to French football. Nordin isn’t alone, as both PSG and its supporters would have to accept Kylian Mbappe’s rumored transfer. We don’t know about him, but was the departure of Lionel Messi and Neymar a blessing in disguise for PSG? Let us know in the comments.