Messi tells the details of his exit from Barcelona .. "Shocking me!"
The unexpected move from Barcelona came as a shock to the famous Argentine star Lionel Messi, but the distinguished striker confirmed that the presence of familiar faces in his new destination helped him adapt and settle in the ranks of Paris Saint-Germain easier.
Messi, 34, spent his entire career in Barcelona, the Catalan club's historical top scorer with 672 goals, and moved to the French club at the end of last season on a two-year contract after Barcelona informed him of his inability to keep him.
Messi said in an interview with "France Football" magazine published on Saturday: I returned to Barcelona after the Copa America in July to prepare for the new season, after taking advantage of an additional vacation granted to me by coach Ronald Koeman.
Messi added: I was thinking of signing my contract and starting training directly, and I thought that everything went as planned and that what was missing was my signature only on the contract.
And Messi, who won the award for the best player in the world six times, added that Barcelona officials shocked him, explaining: When I arrived in Barcelona, they told me that this matter no longer exists and that I can not continue and I have to search for a new team, because Barcelona cannot afford the costs of extending his contract with me, It was very difficult to visualize all of this which meant that we would have to leave our home and change the family's lifestyle.
But in Saint-Germain, he rejoined his former Barcelona colleague, Neymar, who played alongside him in the Catalan club for four seasons.
In the Parisian club, Messi also joined his compatriots Leandro Paredes and Angel Di Maria, and coach Mauricio Pochettino is also Argentine.
Messi confirmed: All these aspects played a role in his decision, as the presence of acquaintances and friends of mine made me see that things would be easier, which would help me adapt and integrate.
He added: I was right in that because the integration and adaptation became very easy, especially since there are many players who speak Spanish like me, in addition to the presence of some friends such as Neymar, Paredes and Di Maria, who helped me when I arrived at the club.
Messi is now seeking to win the Champions League for the fifth time, while with Neymar and Kylian Mbappe a very strong and distinguished attacking partnership.
There is an old strong relationship between Messi and Neymar, but understanding and harmony with French striker Mbappe, who also speaks fluent Spanish, will need time.
Messi said: These aspects make things easier .. I have been here for a short time and it is too early to judge things, but I am confident that things will go well.
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