When Lionel Messi signed as a free agent for Paris Saint Germain, the Ligue 1 giants thought that they had pulled off quite the coup. Although the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was focused on delivering his new colors, he struggled to make the desired impact for the Parisians. Messi did register 32 goals and 35 assists for PSG during his two-year stint, but according to PSG Ultra’s chief, his time at the French capital was linked to ‘merchandising,’ rather than his on-field performances.

The fans of PSG were seemingly disappointed regarding Messi’s comments about the club recently and reportedly descended upon Miami recently to express their discontent with the Argentine.

PSG Ultras chief clarified why it didn’t work for Lionel Messi at PSG

PSG Ultras are known as the most representative and radical fans throughout the soccer world. The Ultras have often displayed their wrath against opposition and surprisingly sometimes at their own players at Parc des Prince. With both Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. heading away from Paris Saint Germain after their tenure, the ultras have labeled both the stars as ‘mercenaries,’ and showed their discontent towards them.

As reported by Clarin, Romain Mabille, president of the PSG Ultras, gave his statements regarding the situation faced by Messi and Neymar at PSG. He said, “I am delighted that Messi is gone and so is Neymar. I have no hatred for those players, but Messi is part of a time that did not work and related more to the club’s merchandising than anything else.“

“We can’t play with those kinds of players. There is no hatred, but both he and Neymar had to leave for the good of the club and start again.”

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Lionel Messi was booed and jeered by PSG fans following the team’s exits from the Champions League over the past two seasons. Messi previously stated about his experience at Parc des Prince, as he said that he felt ‘fractured’ with a significant group of PSG supporters. He also stated that he didn’t feel happy at the club and never wanted to join them in the first place.

PSG fans storm Miami with disrespectful banner aimed at the Argentine star

Lionel Messi joined David Beckham’s MLS project this summer as soon as his contract with the Parisians ran down. Already shining at Inter Miami and leading them towards their first-ever Leagues Cup triumph, he has found his magical feet once again. However, a few diehard PSG fans decided to take their grievances against Messi to the United States and staged protests against him.

In the photographs circulating on social media, ahead of Messi’s home debut in the MLS, some PSG fans brought along a large banner along with them, sporting the slogan: “MESSI: FINALLY RID OF THE RUDE!” They appeared to be holding the banner with the slogan outside Inter Miami’s DRV PNK Stadium.

It is believed that the same banner was displayed by ultras at their home ground, Parc des Prince, in protest of Neymar Jr, who also departed for Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal this summer.

Both Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. have found their paths apart from the French capital. They’ll be aiming to bring glory to their current colors and enjoy their time on the pitch. Lionel Messi will be next in action for Inter Miami again when they visit BMO Stadium to face Los Angeles FC (LAFC) on Sunday, September 3rd.

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