Lionel Messi's Journey: From PSG Struggles to Inter Miami Triumph

Explore Lionel Messi's transition from PSG to Inter Miami, his challenges, achievements, and his vision for the future of MLS.

Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers of all time, recently opened up about his tumultuous two-year stint at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The Argentine superstar, who joined PSG in 2021 after a legendary 21-year career at Barcelona, revealed that he "didn't enjoy" his time at the French club. Despite scoring 32 goals and providing 35 assists in 76 appearances, Messi admitted that he struggled with daily life at PSG, including training and matches.

In an interview with Apple Music's Zane Lowe, Messi shared his perspective on his move to Inter Miami, a club co-owned by David Beckham. He described the transition as an opportunity to start anew, especially after the challenges he faced in Paris. "I wasn't happy on a daily basis," Messi confessed. "I had a hard time adapting to all that. I felt called to come to Inter Miami because it's a club that's growing, very new, with few years as a club."

Messi's departure from PSG wasn't without controversy. PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi criticized Messi for lacking "respect" when he left the club. Additionally, Messi revealed that his relationship with PSG fans had "fractured" after a "significant" number of supporters began treating him differently.

Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has been instrumental in the club's success, contributing 36 goals and 20 assists in 42 appearances. He has also expressed his excitement for Miami hosting the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which will feature PSG as well as Premier League giants Manchester City and Chelsea. "I think this is very important for the club, especially, to participate for the first time in a World Cup that will take place in the country," Messi said. "And for the MLS to have two teams is a wonderful thing."

Messi's arrival has significantly boosted the profile of Major League Soccer (MLS). He believes that the league has immense potential to grow and attract more global talent. "Everything that's happening creates an opportunity for the MLS to keep growing in football, as a league," added Messi. "And for other players to have the opportunity to come and keep growing."

What to Read Next

Decoding the Offside Rule: Why Jota's Goal Stands and the Ongoing Debate
Football

Decoding the Offside Rule: Why Jota's Goal Stands and the Ongoing Debate

Explore the intricacies of the offside rule through the lens of Jota's controversial goal and the broader implications for football.

Frank Lampard's Bold Goalkeeper Switch Propels Coventry City to Championship Play-offs
Football

Frank Lampard's Bold Goalkeeper Switch Propels Coventry City to Championship Play-offs

Frank Lampard's strategic goalkeeper change leads Coventry City to a crucial victory, securing their spot in the Championship play-offs.

Breaking the Mold: PSG and Inter's Journey to the Champions League Final
Football

Breaking the Mold: PSG and Inter's Journey to the Champions League Final

Explore how PSG and Inter Milan defied expectations to reach the Champions League final, challenging the dominance of traditional football powerhouses.

Final Day Drama: Key Battles in the Women's Super League
Football

Final Day Drama: Key Battles in the Women's Super League

Explore the pivotal matches and awards up for grabs on the final day of the Women's Super League season.

Klopp's Legacy: How His Influence Paved the Way for Slot's Title Triumph at Liverpool
Football

Klopp's Legacy: How His Influence Paved the Way for Slot's Title Triumph at Liverpool

Explore how Jurgen Klopp's foundational work at Liverpool enabled Arne Slot to lead the team to a 20th league title, maintaining the club's winning culture.

Arteta's Arsenal: Time to Deliver Trophies or Face the Consequences
Football

Arteta's Arsenal: Time to Deliver Trophies or Face the Consequences

Mikel Arteta's Arsenal faces mounting pressure to end their trophy drought after a disappointing Champions League exit against PSG.

Dundee FC's New Stadium Plan Faces Delays Due to Traffic Junction Dispute
Football

Dundee FC's New Stadium Plan Faces Delays Due to Traffic Junction Dispute

Dundee FC's new stadium plans are delayed due to unresolved traffic junction issues with Transport Scotland, testing the patience of the club's management.

Carlo Ancelotti's Potential Move to Brazil: A Game-Changer for 2026 World Cup
Football

Carlo Ancelotti's Potential Move to Brazil: A Game-Changer for 2026 World Cup

Explore Carlo Ancelotti's potential transition from Real Madrid to Brazil's national team, setting the stage for the 2026 World Cup.

Historic Triumph: Real Betis Secures First European Final Spot After Thrilling Victory Over Fiorentina
Football

Historic Triumph: Real Betis Secures First European Final Spot After Thrilling Victory Over Fiorentina

Real Betis makes history by reaching their first major European final after a dramatic extra-time win against Fiorentina in the UEFA Conference League.

Lamine Yamal: The Rising Star Poised to Rival Messi's Legacy
Football

Lamine Yamal: The Rising Star Poised to Rival Messi's Legacy

Lamine Yamal's meteoric rise at Barcelona has sparked comparisons with Lionel Messi. Can he build a legacy to rival the greatest?

Kevin De Bruyne Expresses Surprise Over Manchester City Contract Decision
Football

Kevin De Bruyne Expresses Surprise Over Manchester City Contract Decision

Kevin De Bruyne shares his surprise at not receiving a new contract offer from Manchester City, reflecting on his future and contributions to the club.

Celtic's Liam Scales Defends Adam Idah Amidst Criticism Ahead of Crucial Rangers Clash
Football

Celtic's Liam Scales Defends Adam Idah Amidst Criticism Ahead of Crucial Rangers Clash

Celtic defender Liam Scales supports teammate Adam Idah against criticism as they prepare for a pivotal match against Rangers in the Scottish Premiership.

Jack Wilshere Excluded from Norwich City Managerial Race Despite Interim Role
Football

Jack Wilshere Excluded from Norwich City Managerial Race Despite Interim Role

Jack Wilshere will not be considered for the permanent manager role at Norwich City, despite his interim leadership during the final matches of the season.

Scottish Championship Finale: Falkirk vs Livingston Title Showdown on BBC
Football

Scottish Championship Finale: Falkirk vs Livingston Title Showdown on BBC

Catch the thrilling finale of the Scottish Championship as Falkirk and Livingston battle for the title live on BBC.

Transfer Tussle: Newcastle and Liverpool Eye Striker Swaps, Bayern Targets Brighton's Keeper
Football

Transfer Tussle: Newcastle and Liverpool Eye Striker Swaps, Bayern Targets Brighton's Keeper

Explore the latest football transfer gossip as Newcastle and Liverpool consider striker swaps, Bayern Munich eyes Brighton's keeper, and Manchester United plans a summer overhaul.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.