Lionel Messi is believed to have influenced the transfer faceoff between Kylian Mbappe and PSG in last transfer window.
Mbappe met stiff opposition from PSG hierarchy, who did not bar his exit but maintained they cannot allow him to leave for free.
The two parties locked horns in a fiery exchange and their relationship grew sour as they failed to reach a common ground on a perfect exit solution for both parties.
Behind the scenes, Lionel Messi was also warming up for his PSG exit and his influence is said to have played a role in Kylian Mbappe and PSG transfer standoff.
According to a report in Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Lionel Messi advised Kylian Mbappe to find a new challenge at a club with a winning project, such as Barcelona or Real Madrid, when the two were teammates at Paris Saint-Germain.
The report claims that Messi told Mbappe: “I prefer that you go to Barca. But if you want to go to Madrid, do it, you deserve a real winning project.”
It is believed such admonitions must have fueled the transfer war between Mbappe and PSG.
Mbappe is currently under contract with PSG until 2024, but he has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid in recent months. The Frenchman has reportedly told PSG that he will not extend his contract, and he is expected to leave the club next summer.
Messi’s advice to Mbappe is significant, as he is one of the most successful players in football history. He has won 10 La Liga titles, four Champions League titles, and a record seven Ballon d’Or awards. Lionel Messi is also a longtime rival of Real Madrid, so his endorsement of the club is a sign of their ambition.
Mbappe is one of the most talented young players in the world, and he is sure to be in high demand next summer. It will be interesting to see where he decides to go, but it is clear that Lionel Messi believes that he needs to be at a club with a winning project in order to fulfill his potential.
