Lionel Messi is set to play on Sunday against his former team, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), a unique milestone in his career. It marks a particularly poignant moment for Messi, as his time at PSG has been described as challenging, with a disappointing record of 32 goals in 75 appearances – significantly below his usual standards.
Messi has openly expressed his struggles during his two-year stint in Paris, describing the period as one devoid of happiness. He mentioned, “They were two years that I did not enjoy, I was not happy day to day… I struggled a lot to adapt.” His relationship with the club and some sections of the fanbase deteriorated over time, leading to a rift that he did not intend but found himself experiencing, similar to what past stars like Kylian Mbappé and Neymar encountered.
Despite the difficulties in his club career, Messi thrived with the Argentina national team during these years. He celebrated winning the Copa América in 2021 and lifted the FIFA World Cup in 2022, a testament to his exceptional talent regardless of the club struggles.
The situation took a negative turn in May 2023 when Messi faced disciplinary actions after an absence from training, linked to his absence for a prior obligation in Saudi Arabia. With his contract ending and a lack of clarity concerning future plans from PSG, tensions mounted, leading to his decision not to renew his contract.
As Messi prepares to face PSG in the Round of 16, there remains a degree of warmth between him and the club, with PSG extending birthday wishes as he turned 38. Nasser Al Khelaïfi, PSG’s president, publicly acknowledged Messi’s contributions to the team, highlighting the importance of players like him and Neymar in the club’s journey.
This upcoming match will not only evoke memories for Messi but also represent a new chapter, as he now finds joy playing for Inter Miami, where he and his family are enjoying life much more than they did in Paris. It’s a reminder that even in moments of difficulty, a new beginning can bring happiness and fulfillment.