Saint-Germain-en-Laye (AFP)
Argentinian Paris SG coach Mauricio Pochettino on Friday praised superstar Lionel Messi, with "incredible" energy in training, while recalling the need for him to "build a team" that transcends the greats names of its workforce.
"I saw him happy, with incredible energy," said the technician from the club's training center in Saint-Germain-en-Laye.
Parisian since Tuesday, the "Pulga" met his new teammates on Thursday, the start of a new chapter for him after 21 years at FC Barcelona.
Seeing him, "we had the same feeling as the entire squad, as all the supporters. It's enthusiasm, positive energy," said Pochettino.
"The whole planet saw (the arrival of Messi), it was like + Big Brother + (laughs). The players received + Leo + in an incredible way, there is a good + feeling +, good communication", a- he continued.
"Poche" shares several points in common with Messi, such as nationality, and that of having played for Argentine club Newell's Old Boys.
"I have always admired him. He is one of the greatest players in the world, if not the greatest," said Pochettino.
But the technician recalled "his responsibility to always win": according to him, this requires the construction of a solid group.
"Our challenge for the staff is for the big names in the workforce to be able to form a team on the ground, with discipline and unity. It's very exciting for us," he said. said.
"You have to create a dynamic in which each player has their space, and can feel important. We have the talent, PSG has always had it, but you also have to have a group, and not just for photos on social networks ", he continued.
PSG plays Saturday against Strasbourg, for the second day of Ligue 1. Messi is not expected on the scoresheet.
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