After reaching the Round of 16 in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Inter Miami is set to clash with PSG in a highly anticipated duel. The matchup revives Lionel Messi’s past with the team, prompting a French media outlet to publish a provocative cover that has stirred debate among fans.
Inter Miami sent shockwaves through the soccer world by clinching a spot in the Round of 16 at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, following hard-fought draws against Palmeiras and Al Ahly and a crucial victory over Porto. Now, they face their toughest challenge yet against Paris Saint-Germain, the newly crowned UEFA Champions League champions. Amid this, French media have revisited Lionel Messi’s past with PSG, reigniting criticism of the Argentine star.
The front page of L’Equipe read, “Messi, not everything is forgiven”—a pointed reminder of lingering resentment in Paris. The article highlighted the fractured relationship Messi had with the club’s supporters, portraying a stint that never fully clicked. The Argentine himself acknowledged the difficulty of his time in France during an interview with ESPN.
“On a personal level I had a bad time in Paris, it was a big change for the family; when I have a change of mood I reflect it inside the court… I thought it was going to be much easier to adapt, it was not as we wished, although it was a life experience that I lived with my family,” Lionel Messi confessed.
Despite the criticism, Messi delivered solid numbers during his PSG tenure. He played 75 matches, scoring 32 goals and providing 35 assists. While he showed flashes of brilliance, fans expected more—specifically, success in Europe. When the team failed to lift the UEFA Champions League trophy, the criticism grew louder. Messi faced frequent whistles at the Parc des Princes stadium, as supporters voiced their disappointment in what was supposed to be a crowning chapter for the club.
Lucas Hernandez shares thoughts on facing Messi as PSG prepare for Club World Cup showdown
Despite the PSG vs. Inter Miami game may not promising much on the sporting front, but its social significance could be immense. Lionel Messi, who acknowledged struggles in Paris due to his relationship with the fans, might face a chilly reception from the French side supporters. However, Lucas Hernandez offers a different take on the upcoming encounter.
“He (Lionel Messi) has been a soccer icon for many years and will remain one. He is an excellent player, but tomorrow he will be another rival player and we will do our best to beat Inter Miami. Still, we know it won’t be easy, but we will continue in the line of work. It will be a nice match,” Lucas Hernandez said, via RMC Sport.
From: bolavip.com
