Galtier asks the team to let some freedom to Lionel Messi. Christophe Galtier, the manager of Paris Saint-Germain, has urged his players to put in a lot of effort to allow Lionel Messi some space on the field, claiming that the superstar is excused from playing defense.
On February 4, the Argentine gave PSG a 2-1 victory over Toulouse. At Parc des Princes, a free-kick by Branco Van den Boomen gave the visitors the advantage before Achraf Hakimi tied the score for PSG. Messi took charge in the absence of both Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, leading his team to victory by scoring the game-winning goal from a distance shortly after the hour mark.
Galtier lauded Messi in his post-victory press conference and advised his colleagues to work hard to fill in for him on certain assignments. Lionel Messi was a crucial component, as seen by his goal and the circumstances he incited. I ask the group to support Leo and do their best for him. He must be excused from some responsibilities,” He said.
The squad must take all necessary steps to make it possible for the Argentine to create opportunities, he continued. Galtier remarked that for him to distill passes, which are so uncommon in modern football, in such restricted places, “the partners must step up their efforts to recover and create movement.”
The Frenchman claimed that after falling behind early against Toulouse, his squad recovered admirably. “From set pieces, we were aware of Toulouse’s caliber. We had overall control over the game. Against a very compact defense, we had to level the playing field and take chances. In that regard, Achraf utilized his left foot to score this time, as he did against Montpellier despite the goal being disallowed”, he said.
Galtier commended the 35-year-old for his contribution to the outcome. “The second half was then a lot better for us moving forward, even though we had to be cautious with the team’s balance. Leo’s talent and tenacity allowed us to lead the squad to victory and prevail in a contest that we appeared to be entitled to win,” he added.
Despite interest from Barcelona and the Saudi Arabian team Al-Hilal, Lionel Messi is expected to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain, according to the French publication Le Parisien.
The Argentine is now having a great time at Parc des Princes and giving some outstanding performances alongside Kylian Mbappe and Neymar Jr. In 23 games for the Ligue 1 giants this season, he has accrued 14 goals and as many assists. Due to the 35-year-PSG old’s contract expiring this summer, there have been rumors of him moving to the Middle East and returning to Barcelona.
Keep an eye on this space for the latest football news, rumors, and updates on your favorite players and clubs.
