Last Updated on January 11, 2023 by
Paris Saint-Germain have decided not to allow World Cup winner Lionel Messi to parade the trophy at the Parc des Princes due to a possible backlash from fans.
WHAT IS HAPPENING? PSG welcome Ligue 1 side Angers on Wednesday in what will be Messi’s first game back since beating France in the 2022 Qatar final with Argentina on 18 December. The World Cup trophy on home soil – often customary for return winners – amid fears of potential boos and boos from his own supporters.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Messi could face abuse from French fans after Albiceleste goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez taunts Kylian Mbappé before and after the final. Messi was standing next to Martinez when he held up a doll with Mbappe’s face attached during Argentina’s homecoming parade in Buenos Aires. Furthermore, Le Parisien writes that the club believes the guard of honor given to Messi upon his return to training was welcome enough for the World Cup winner, also citing the gap of three and a half weeks as another factor that contributed to the Hon. the field presentation does not go ahead.
AND WHAT’S MORE: Despite Messi missing the chance to show off the famed trophy at the Parc des Princes, the Argentinian is open for coach Christophe Galtier’s selection against Angers, unlike fellow Cup finalist of the world Kylian Mbappe. Messi could still extend his stay in the French capital beyond the end of the season, as negotiations for a new deal have reportedly begun.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR MESSI? With the trophy save shelved, it remains to be seen whether Messi will start the game against Angers or make any impact from the bench.
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