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

Hibs Secure Rising Star Josh Mulligan After Dundee Departure
Football

Hibs Secure Rising Star Josh Mulligan After Dundee Departure

Hibernian FC signs versatile midfielder Josh Mulligan, a standout talent from Dundee, on a four-year deal.

Injury Woes for Ireland: Campbell and O'Sullivan Miss Crucial USA Friendly
Football

Injury Woes for Ireland: Campbell and O'Sullivan Miss Crucial USA Friendly

Megan Campbell and Denise O'Sullivan are sidelined for Ireland's first friendly against the USA due to injuries, adding to the team's challenges.

Rangers Boost Squad with Key Loan Deals and Transfers Ahead of New Season
Football

Rangers Boost Squad with Key Loan Deals and Transfers Ahead of New Season

Rangers are strengthening their squad with strategic loan deals and potential transfers, including Max Aarons and Conor Coady, as they prepare for the upcoming Scottish Premiership season.

Tony Docherty Reflects on His Impactful Tenure at Dundee FC
Football

Tony Docherty Reflects on His Impactful Tenure at Dundee FC

Former Dundee manager Tony Docherty shares insights on his tenure, focusing on team development and strategic style.

Nicolas Jackson Faces Extended Suspension After Controversial Red Card in Club World Cup
Football

Nicolas Jackson Faces Extended Suspension After Controversial Red Card in Club World Cup

Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson receives a two-game ban following a red card in the Club World Cup, impacting the team's strategy.

Matt Beard to Lead Burnley Women's Team as Head Coach: A New Era Begins
Football

Matt Beard to Lead Burnley Women's Team as Head Coach: A New Era Begins

Former Liverpool manager Matt Beard is set to take charge of Burnley Women, aiming to lead them to new heights in the upcoming season.

Messi's Magic: The Timeless Genius of Football's Living Legend
Football

Messi's Magic: The Timeless Genius of Football's Living Legend

Lionel Messi proves his enduring brilliance with a stunning free-kick, leading Inter Miami to victory in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Lawrence Shankland Excluded from Hearts' Pre-Season Training Camp in Spain
Football

Lawrence Shankland Excluded from Hearts' Pre-Season Training Camp in Spain

Lawrence Shankland has been left out of Hearts' pre-season training camp in Spain as contract negotiations continue.

Marti Cifuentes Departs QPR: A New Chapter for the Championship Club
Football

Marti Cifuentes Departs QPR: A New Chapter for the Championship Club

Marti Cifuentes leaves QPR after a challenging season, marking the end of his tenure and the beginning of a new era for the club.

Myles Lewis-Skelly Commits Future to Arsenal with New Five-Year Deal
Football

Myles Lewis-Skelly Commits Future to Arsenal with New Five-Year Deal

Young England defender Myles Lewis-Skelly signs a new five-year contract with Arsenal, aiming to create a lasting legacy at his boyhood club.

Stefano Pioli Departs Al-Nassr: Ronaldo's Future in Focus
Football

Stefano Pioli Departs Al-Nassr: Ronaldo's Future in Focus

Al-Nassr announces the departure of manager Stefano Pioli after a season, with Cristiano Ronaldo's future at the club under speculation.

Manchester United Eyes Bournemouth's Semenyo as Transfer Plans Intensify
Football

Manchester United Eyes Bournemouth's Semenyo as Transfer Plans Intensify

Manchester United considers Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo as a backup if the Bryan Mbuemo deal fails. Explore the latest football transfer updates.

Manchester City Fined £1M for Kick-Off Delays: Premier League's Strict Stance on Timeliness
Football

Manchester City Fined £1M for Kick-Off Delays: Premier League's Strict Stance on Timeliness

Manchester City faces a £1m fine for repeated kick-off delays, highlighting the Premier League's commitment to maintaining professional standards and schedule integrity.

Darwin Nunez Eyes Napoli Move Amidst Summer Transfer Buzz
Football

Darwin Nunez Eyes Napoli Move Amidst Summer Transfer Buzz

Explore the latest football transfer gossip as Darwin Nunez considers a move to Napoli, and other key updates from the Premier League and beyond.

Julien Stephan Takes the Helm at QPR: A New Era Begins
Football

Julien Stephan Takes the Helm at QPR: A New Era Begins

Julien Stephan, the renowned French coach, has been appointed as the new head coach of Queens Park Rangers, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the Championship club.

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.