Kylian Mbappé has finally spoken out about his relationship with Lionel Messi during their time at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), revealing insights into the complexities of their dynamic. The French superstar, who shared the pitch with Messi for two seasons before the Argentine icon moved to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, admitted that his initial feelings towards the legendary forward were far from warm.
Mbappé candidly explained that his early emotions towards Messi were rooted in frustration and anger, especially following the 2022 FIFA World Cup. “I was angry,” he confessed, acknowledging the fierce competition between the two on the global stage. The 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where Argentina triumphed over France in a thrilling 3-3 draw that ended with a penalty shootout, intensified their rivalry. Mbappé’s heartbreak, combined with Messi’s moment of glory, undoubtedly created a tension between the two.
However, as time passed and their time together at PSG progressed, Mbappé’s perspective shifted. He admitted that his initial anger gradually transformed into respect and understanding for Messi’s incredible talent and legacy. “Over time, I came to understand and appreciate the player he is, and the contributions he made to the team,” Mbappé explained. This shift in attitude sheds light on the often-overlooked emotional side of elite football, where personal rivalries can coexist with mutual respect for each other’s achievements.
Mbappé’s reflections not only offer a candid look at his personal journey but also underscore the complexities of professional football. Even amidst intense competition and contrasting career trajectories, mutual admiration and growth can emerge. For Mbappé, Messi’s departure from PSG marked the end of a chapter, but it also allowed him to reflect on the value of their time together—further enriching his evolution as one of the world’s greatest players.
