The transition of Lionel Messi from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to Inter Miami continues to be underscored by a visible display of discontent from PSG ultras, the fervent fan group known for their passionate allegiance.
Outside DRV PNK Stadium, the home stadium of Inter Miami, photos emerged showcasing the PSG ultras with a banner that carried a pointed message: “Messi: Finally rid of the rude.”
The strained relationship between Messi and the PSG fan base has been extensively documented. Evidently, the PSG ultras harbored lingering sentiments of dissatisfaction, culminating in their demonstrative display against their former star player.
Ahead of Messi’s MLS debut against New York Red Bulls, the PSG ultras embarked on a journey to Miami, marking their presence with the anti-Messi banner. However, their action elicited varied reactions on social media.
Some observers found amusement in the fact that the ultras had gone to significant lengths for a relatively small banner directed at a former player. Others questioned the rationale behind their journey to Miami, particularly given that Messi and Inter Miami were slated to compete against the Red Bulls in New York.
The Ultras seem to have gone to Miami to put on a banner against Leo Messi, just like the one at the Parc against Neymar. pic.twitter.com/NoFz7DxsCr
— PSGhub (@PSGhub) August 26, 2023
Comments circulating online ranged from “Look how scared they are” to “So jobless,” encapsulating the diverse perspectives sparked by the ultras’ gesture.
During his two-year tenure with PSG, Messi left his mark with notable statistics: 32 goals and 35 assists across 75 appearances, contributing to two Ligue 1 titles. However, Champions League triumph remained elusive during his time with the club.
Recent events have cast a spotlight on the frayed ties between Messi and PSG. A recent interview with Messi conducted by Apple TV prompted disgruntled supporters to question Messi’s dedication to Paris and brought renewed attention to his stint in the Ligue 1 club.
Neymar Jr. suffered a fate similar to Lionel Messi at Parc des Princes
The echoes of discontent from PSG Ultras reverberated beyond Lionel Messi. Neymar Jr., another superstar, faced a similar display of disapproval as ultras showcased a banner with the message “Neymar: Finally Rid of the Rude” within the familiar confines of Parc des Princes.
The message remained consistent with the one directed at Messi, underlining a unified sentiment among PSG fans. The ultras’ stance reflects a sense of satisfaction over the departures of these high-profile players, attributed in part to perceived underwhelming performances, particularly in the UEFA Champions League—a primary aspiration of the Paris club.
📸 | PSG Ultras with an anti-Neymar banner even after the player left :
Neymar : “Finally Rid Of The Rude”
Disgusting 🤮 pic.twitter.com/srFMXcM4FX
— PSG Chief (@psg_chief) August 26, 2023
Notably, PSG ultras have opted for silence when it comes to Kylian Mbappe. The French superstar’s potential departure during the summer transfer window was met with speculation, yet he ultimately remains a part of the main squad.
The complex dynamics between Neymar Jr. and Mbappe, extensively documented, have seemingly led PSG fans to align their faith with the sole remaining superstar of the previous season’s formidable front three.
Shifting focus to on-field developments, Luis Enrique’s team has experienced a relatively modest start to the Ligue 1 season. The initial trio of matches saw two draws and one victory, with Kylian Mbappe emerging as a key contributor, netting three goals in just two appearances.
As the season unfolds, PSG’s performance and the interplay between its high-profile players remain subjects of scrutiny and speculation.