Paris Saint-Germain's miserable season has taken a darker turn as the team suffered its second straight home defeat, this time to Lyon with a 1-0 loss. The match was marred by the booing of Lionel Messi's name when his number was announced over the public address system, a stark contrast to the adoration he received during Argentina's recent friendlies.
The disappointment in Paris is palpable, with the team struggling to find its footing on home soil. Even before the game began, it was clear that tensions were running high among the PSG faithful, who whistled and jeered as Messi took to the field.
Despite his impressive goal contributions – 18 goals and 17 assists this season – Messi has yet to lead PSG to victory in a major competition. The team's only recent trophy win was Ligue 1 last season, which many would argue was won without Messi's input.
Coach Christophe Galtier refused to blame Messi for the team's struggles, instead attributing their failures to a lack of cohesion among players and an inability to overcome difficult situations. "I found it hard to listen to," he said in response to the jeering. "There may be expectations for Messi and Mbappe to unlock difficult situations. Messi tries very hard, they didn't all work out; but around him, the other players also need to do their jobs."
PSG's struggles are a far cry from the high expectations surrounding their arrival of Lionel Messi. The team is now just six points behind leaders Lens and Marseille, with even the domestic title hanging in the balance.
Up next for PSG is a season-defining week that will test their resolve and determination. They travel to an unbeaten Nice side before hosting Lens at home, where they must regroup and refocus if they are to avoid another disappointing defeat.
The disappointment in Paris is palpable, with the team struggling to find its footing on home soil. Even before the game began, it was clear that tensions were running high among the PSG faithful, who whistled and jeered as Messi took to the field.
Despite his impressive goal contributions – 18 goals and 17 assists this season – Messi has yet to lead PSG to victory in a major competition. The team's only recent trophy win was Ligue 1 last season, which many would argue was won without Messi's input.
Coach Christophe Galtier refused to blame Messi for the team's struggles, instead attributing their failures to a lack of cohesion among players and an inability to overcome difficult situations. "I found it hard to listen to," he said in response to the jeering. "There may be expectations for Messi and Mbappe to unlock difficult situations. Messi tries very hard, they didn't all work out; but around him, the other players also need to do their jobs."
PSG's struggles are a far cry from the high expectations surrounding their arrival of Lionel Messi. The team is now just six points behind leaders Lens and Marseille, with even the domestic title hanging in the balance.
Up next for PSG is a season-defining week that will test their resolve and determination. They travel to an unbeaten Nice side before hosting Lens at home, where they must regroup and refocus if they are to avoid another disappointing defeat.