Despite being one of the most renowned figures in football, Kylian Mbappe doesn’t hesitate to acknowledge the greatness of his contemporaries.
After Paris Saint-Germain’s 3-2 home loss to Clermont Foot on matchday 38, which coincided with their 11th Ligue 1 title win, the PSG players prepared to celebrate with their fans.
However, before joining the festivities, Mbappe took a moment to pay tribute to Lionel Messi, a player widely regarded as one of the finest of this generation.
This gesture highlights Mbappe’s respect and admiration for the Argentine superstar, recognizing his exceptional talent and contribution to the world of football.
The Frenchman spoke to a PSG TV camera while Messi was just across from him, and he started to fanboy a little bit over the 2022 World Cup winner.
“Lionel Messi, seven Ballon d’Ors, he’s there, he’s there,” Mbappe said.
Kylian Mbappe: “Lionel Messi, 7 Ballon d’Ors, he’s there, he’s there.” 😂🇫🇷
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) June 3, 2023
pic.twitter.com/mg0PbJiC6t
Messi confirms PSG departure
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi made the decision to leave Paris Saint-Germain, thanking the club, the city, and the supporters for the opportunity.
Inter Miami, Al Hilal, and ex-club Barcelona are three teams vying for his services, per Sport Bible.
It really is anyone’s guess where the tricky magician could go, but a large majority of the football world would love nothing more than to see him back at his boyhood club Barcelona.
As for Mbappe, it appears he will stay at PSG for another year as Real Madrid’s interest in the striker has waned, at least for this summer.
PSG lose on Messi’s farewell
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Lionel Messi’s final game for Paris Saint-Germain ended in defeat on Saturday, while Monaco missed out on European qualification and Auxerre were relegated on the last night of the Ligue 1 season.
Messi’s expected departure from the French giants after two seasons was officially confirmed by PSG in a statement shortly before Saturday’s match against Clermont.
Yet Messi, who ends his PSG career with 32 goals in 75 appearances, was jeered by some fans during the match, which the champions lost 3-2.