Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi has opened up about the reasons behind Lionel Messi’s absence from a World Cup parade at Parc des Princes.
Despite the Argentine’s stellar performance and triumph in the 2022 World Cup with the Albiceleste team, Messi’s celebration at PSG’s home ground was notably absent.
Messi, aged 36, played a pivotal role in Argentina’s success, scoring seven goals, including a standout performance in the thrilling final against France in Qatar.
In an interview with Miguel Granados on OLGA last year, Messi expressed his dissatisfaction with his treatment at Parc des Princes post-World Cup, stating, “I wasn’t happy.”
Acknowledging Messi’s sentiments, Al-Khelaifi revealed in an interview with RMC TV the primary reason for the absence of a parade.
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The PSG chairman explained, “We’re in France, and Messi won against Kylian [Mbappe]. We are a French club, and I don’t want the whole stadium to be against him either. I think we have to respect that.”
Al-Khelaifi’s recent explanation contrasts with his earlier statement in September, where he emphasized PSG’s celebrations for Messi in private and during training.
He stated, “With respect, we are a French club. It was, of course, sensitive to celebrate at the stadium. We must respect the country he defeated, his teammates on the France team, and our supporters too.”
Messi, who scored 32 goals in 75 appearances for PSG, clinching back-to-back Ligue 1 titles, admitted feeling discontent at Parc des Princes.
Despite the contradiction in Al-Khelaifi’s statements, the PSG chairman has shed light on the intricate balance between celebrating Messi’s success and maintaining respect for the club’s French identity.
