On Sunday, Lionel Messi stepped onto a pitch for the first time in his career in a jersey other than that of FC Barcelona. The Argentine made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in the 66th minute. Even if another player, Kylian Mbappe, shone as the match winner in the duel with Stade Reims, Messi was the focus.
The Argentine was prepared a large train station by the opposing fans and players. After 65 minutes on the bench, six-time world footballer Messi came on for Neymar in PSG’s 2-0 win at Stade Reims and was greeted with great applause by the opposing fans.
At his debut with the shirt number 30, Messi was not able to set any decisive accents. The performance could be noted as inconspicuous. He started solo runs twice, but got stuck with the opposing players.
Lionel Messi makes PSG debut
Lionel Messi made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in a 2-0 win over Stade Reims on Sunday. Kylian Mbappe secured the three points for PSG with a brace.
“Soon even better”
Two-time goalscorer Mbappe wanted to serve the Argentine with passes for a shot on goal, but the ball failed both times. Messi last played a competitive game at the Copa America in early July. But with success: the 34-year-old won a major title with Argentina for the first time.
“He was satisfied with the team and happy that he can develop further with his colleagues. He wants to keep working and I’m sure we’ll be even better soon, ”said PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino after his compatriot’s debut.
Opponents as biggest fans
The game was all about Messi before and after the game. Even before the game, the Reims supporters had besieged the entrance to the stadium to catch a glimpse of Messi or even a quick photo. During the warm-up, the multiple world footballer was celebrated by the hosts’ fans. The opponents were apparently just as impressed. After the final whistle, Reims goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic took a photo of Messi with his young son on his arm. Defender Andrew Gravillon asked for Messi’s jersey to no avail. “Maybe next time I’ll be happier,” he said afterwards.
However, Mbappe was the guarantee for the success of the Ligue 1 leader who was flawless after four matchdays. The 22-year-old star striker, associated with Real Madrid, scored in the 16th and 63rd minutes. Pochettino was once again confident that Mbappe, whose contract expires next summer, will remain. “Our president and (head of sport) Leonardo were very clear. Kylian is our player, ”said the coach. In reality, according to media reports, the offer is now said to have increased to 180 million euros.
