Paris Saint Germain President Nasser Al-Khelaifi has predicted Messi to have his best-ever season in 22/23, on the back of a disappointing first campaign at the Parc des Princes.
Messi joined as the jewel in the crown of PSG’s summer business, arriving as a free agent when it emerged that Barcelona could no longer keep him at the Camp Nou.
However, he struggled in Ligue 1, returning what is by his standards a measly 6 goals and 15 assists in 26 outings.
Lionel Messi struggled in his first campaign in Ligue 1, despite playing alongside Kylian Mbappe (Left). (Photo by John Berry/Getty Images)
Now, however, Al-Khelaifi has backed the Argentine for much better things this season, quashing any suggestions of a departure in the process.
“There is no doubt that Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d’Or a record seven times, and it was not his best season”, he told Goal.
“But after more than 20 years in Barcelona, he discovered a new country, a new city, a new league, a new team. A new culture. As well as his family, and he was injured also by the coronavirus.
“It was not easy for Messi last season, but next season we will see the best version of Messi ever”, he added.
Messi under new regime
PSG will not be headed by Argentine Mauricio Pochettino for much longer, with current Nice boss Christophe Galtier widely anticipated to take the hot seat in the coming days.
He, along with new director of football Luis Campos, is expected to undertake a thorough clearout of the PSG squad.
One man who will not be leaving, however, is Ander Herrera.
Speaking to Spanish outlet Diario AS, he revealed that he is settled in Paris, and is already looking forward to next season.
“I’m going to stay at PSG”, the former Manchester United man said.
“I’ve been here for three years and I’m happy. I want to continue and enjoy a growing club surrounded by the best footballers in the world. I love my daily life, the city and my teammates.”
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