PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe BELIEVES Lionel Messi did not get the respect ‘he deserved’ in France

PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe BELIEVES Lionel Messi did not get the respect ‘he deserved’ in France

Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi enjoyed a good relationship at PSG. (Image via EuroSport)

During an interview with Amazon Prime Sport, PSG’s Kylian Mbappe made a surprising statement, suggesting that Lionel Messi didn’t receive the rightful respect during his time in Paris. Additionally, Mbappe expressed a strong longing for playing alongside Messi again.

Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi collaborated at the Ligue 1 giants, alongside Neymar Jr., crafting a potent attacking force. Together, they secured two league titles and a Coupe de France. However, Messi and Neymar encountered consistent boos from home fans and substantial criticism, notably after the team’s consecutive exits in the UCL R-16 in 2022 and 2023. Subsequently, Messi departed for MLS team Inter Miami.

https://youtu.be/_4BDIHLaILA?si=7GXsQAdYneG4TP6Q

Half a year following the departure of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner from PSG, Mbappe disclosed to Amazon Prime Sport his longing to play alongside Messi again. He emphasized that Messi deserved greater respect in France and highlighted the benefit of having Messi on the team, especially for a forward like himself, ensuring the receipt of the ball while making runs. Mbappe considered playing alongside Messi a rare privilege due to the Argentine’s extraordinary skills.

FS Video
You always miss playing with Leo Messi. For a forward like me, you love running into space, with him, you are certain you can get the ball. Overall, playing with him, it has been special. Messi deserves all the respect and actually in France, he didn't receive the respect he deserved.

After the team’s UCL disappointment in 2023, a group of fans congregated at the club’s Paris headquarters, pointing fingers at Lionel Messi for the failure. Mbappe condemned such actions, faulting the fans for their lack of respect toward the 2022 World Cup champion.

Kylian Mbappe netted a goal in the 44th minute during a 2-0 victory against Toulouse, securing the French Champions Trophy for the club, their 12th win. Speaking to reporters after the game, Mbappe clarified that he hadn’t finalized any decisions about his future, emphasizing his commitment to pursuing titles with his present team.

Kylian Mbappe links to Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe refuted claims that he was thinking about his future, amid Real Madrid links. (Image via The Guardian)

The French World Cup champion, who joined PSG for a massive fee of €180 million, is approaching the last six months of his contract with the club. He’s been a prime target for Real Madrid in a protracted transfer saga between the two clubs. Despite nearing a move to Madrid in 2022, the 25-year-old opted to stay at Parc des Princes. As PSG’s leading scorer, he’s secured five Ligue 1 titles during his tenure.

In case you missed: