The last time Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe saw each other was at the 2022 FIFA World Cup when Argentina defeated France in penalty kicks (4-2).
Le Parisien noted the relationship between the two players as Mbappe returned to training and PSG attempted to navigate a delicate situation; however, the two players have an understanding and are ready to focus on the second half of the 2022-23 football season.
“In the absence of being linked by a deep friendship, the two stars have a deep respect for each other and have displayed the same satisfaction to find each other before Messi recovers indoors and Mbappe takes over the management of the pitches,” Le Parisien wrote on Thursday about the first training session with Mbappe and Messi.
Since that game in Qatar, Mbappe went straight to Paris Saint-Germain, where he played in the first two games for the capital club coming out of the World Cup break. Meanwhile, Messi took time off to celebrate and enjoy the holiday break.
Then after New Year’s Day, Messi returned to training with PSG while Mbappe and Achraf Hakimi went on vacation for a few days. The two players were even seen at Barclays Center for a Brooklyn Nets game.
Nonetheless, with the two players back, PSG now focuses on winning all the competitions they’re currently in, with the primary objective being lifting the UEFA Champions League.