Lionel Messi fulfilled a “lifelong dream” by lifting the World Cup with Argentina, but he wants more glory after struggling at PSG.
PSG’s struggling form doesn’t meet Messi’s expectation
The 35-year-old finally got his hands on the coveted World Cup trophy last December after inspiring Lionel Scaloni’s Albiceleste to their first World Cup since 1986.
Messi scored seven goals and assisted three more in the 2022 edition, including a double in the final shootout victory over France.
The former Barcelona man was at his brilliant best once more, firmly establishing himself as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
“Well, that was quite impressive. “Everything I experienced was very nice; it’s difficult to explain, isn’t it?” Argentina’s star told PSG’s media.
“Because it’s a lifelong dream that came true, and because we were able to share it with the Argentine people in the manner in which they celebrated it.
“To be honest, we expected it to be crazy, but not as crazy as it turned out. It’s a memory that will stay with us for the rest of our lives, for those of us who were fortunate enough to be a part of it, and for all of Argentina.”
Expecting Messi to struggle at the World Cup was largely misguided, but his PSG form leading up to the tournament was far from his usual lofty standards.
Messi wants more glory with PSG
In Messi’s debut 2021-22 Ligue 1 campaign in Paris, the global superstar scored just six goals in 26 appearances.
While acknowledging the difficulties of adjusting to life in Paris, Messi has since found his stride, scoring 13 goals in 21 Ligue 1 appearances this season.
“As I’ve said several times, the first year I had a difficult time adjusting to Paris for various reasons, but this season I started it differently, with a lot of enthusiasm, a lot of desire, and more comfortable with the club, the city, and everything that Paris means,” he added.
“As I’m feeling right now, I’ve really enjoyed the season. I believe that was my entire life. The dedication, the work, the effort, and the desire for more each day.”
“It was my turn to join a new club with the intention of winning the championship with Paris, achieving the lofty goals we set at the beginning of the season.
Christophe Galtier’s side is eight points clear at the top of the table as they look to defend their Ligue 1 title, while a crucial Champions League last-16 tie against Bayern Munich takes place on Wednesday.
PSG are trailing 1-0 in the return leg at the Allianz Arena, but Messi is determined to make history with the French giants.
“It was my turn to come to a new club with the goal of winning the title with Paris,” he went on to say.
“We want to be able to meet the lofty goals we set for ourselves at the start of the season.”
