Mauricio Pochettino Explains How Lionel Messi Will Improve In Adapting to French Football

Paris Saint-Germain's Argentinian forward Lionel Messi looks on during the French L1 football match between Paris-Saint Germain (PSG) and Le Stade rennais Football Club at The Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris on February 11, 2022. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

Last summer, Lionel Messi made the surprise move to join Paris Saint-Germain following his unexpected departure from FC Barcelona. However, the 34-year-old has struggled to adapt to French football, only scoring two goals thus far with the capital club. 

Manager Mauricio Pochettino appeared on Cadena Ser, where the Argentine tactician spoke about Messi’s struggles in Ligue 1. Pochettino did discuss the forward, having spent so many years in Spanish football, but does state his competitiveness will get him out of this funk. 

“Everyone knows Leo Messi. He has been in Spain for 20 years, at Barça. Competition is in his genes; what he loves the most is competition,” Pochettino said.

“He is a competitive animal. He wants to win everything; they want to win in training. I have no doubt that he wants to win, and he wants to win. He carries it in his genes. It’s his DNA.

PSG hopes Messi can find his old Barcelona form for the remainder of the season. Les Parisiens have a marquee matchup against Real Madrid and need the 34-year-old to play a significant role against a club he’s familiar with from his time in Spain. 

Suppose Messi can help the Ligue 1 side win the UEFA Champions League. In that case, it will be well worth the investment to bring the Argentine despite the inconsistent form in domestic competition. 

Tags Barcelona Lionel Messi Mauricio Pochettino

2 Comments

Comments are closed

Follow Us