PSG Chief Al-Khelaifi Criticizes Lionel Messi for Lack of ‘Respect’

Introduction

In a surprising turn of events, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Chief Nasser Al-Khelaifi criticized Lionel Messi for lack of ‘respect’.

Messi, who played for PSG before leaving in the summer, publicly criticized the club for not honoring his World Cup win with Argentina.

Al-Khelaifi, in an interview with RMC Sport, shared his thoughts on Messi’s comments and his feelings towards the situation.

Messi’s World Cup Claims

Messi, who scored 32 goals in 74 games for PSG, claimed that he was the only player who did not receive recognition from the club compared to his 25 other teammates.

He expressed his disappointment in not being celebrated by the club after his World Cup victory.

Messi reportedly wanted to present the World Cup trophy at the Parc des Princes before a game, but the club feared a negative reaction due to Argentina defeating teammate Kylian Mbappe and France in the World Cup.

Al-Khelaifi’s Response

Responding to Messi’s comments, Al-Khelaifi explained that PSG did celebrate Messi’s World Cup win, both in training and privately.

However, he emphasized that as a French club, they needed to respect the country Argentina defeated, their French teammates, and the club’s supporters.

Celebrating Messi’s victory at the stadium would have been sensitive, considering the circumstances. Al-Khelaifi’s response aimed to highlight the importance of respect and understanding the cultural sensitivities involved.

Al-Khelaifi Criticizes Messi’s Lack of Respect

In a recent interview with RMC Sport, Al-Khelaifi went a step further and criticized Messi for not showing respect towards his former employer.

While acknowledging that Messi is not a bad person, he expressed his disapproval of talking negatively about PSG after leaving the club.

Al-Khelaifi emphasized that conversations should happen when individuals are present and not when they have moved on.

He stressed the need for respect and stated that speaking badly about PSG is not appropriate.

Al-Khelaifi also highlighted the importance of considering the feelings of the fans and not wanting the entire stadium to turn against Messi.

“He’s not a bad guy but I don’t like it. I’ll say, not just for him but for everyone, we talk when we’re there, not when we’re gone. That’s not our style… I have great respect for him [Messi] but if someone wants to speak badly about Paris Saint-Germain afterwards, that’s not good. That’s not respect.” – Nasser Al-Khelaifi

Respecting Cultural Differences

Al-Khelaifi pointed out that Messi’s specific complaint about not being celebrated enough after winning the World Cup was influenced by the fact that he had defeated Kylian Mbappe and France, which made it sensitive for PSG to celebrate the victory at the stadium.

PSG, as a French club, needed to respect the defeated country and their French teammates.

Al-Khelaifi’s comments emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting cultural differences in such situations.

Conclusion

PSG Chief Nasser Al-Khelaifi criticizes Lionel Messi for lack of respect, and this criticism by Al-Khelaifi highlights the importance of respect and understanding cultural sensitivities.

While acknowledging Messi’s achievements and talents, Al-Khelaifi expressed his disapproval of negative comments made about PSG after leaving the club.

He emphasized the need for conversations to happen when individuals are present and stressed that speaking badly about PSG is not respectful.

Al-Khelaifi also highlighted the significance of respecting cultural differences and considering the feelings of fans.

Despite the criticisms, it is evident that Al-Khelaifi holds great respect for Messi but expects the same level of respect in return.

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