Ex-PSG Star Believes That The Great Lionel Messi Anticipated His Current Condition (2023)

Ex-PSG Star Believes That Lionel Messi Anticipated His Current Condition (2023)

Ex-PSG Star Pastore Reveals Lionel Messi’s Anticipated Renaissance at Paris Saint-Germain

After a somewhat underwhelming debut season with Paris Saint-Germain, Lionel Messi has made an impressive return this year, and former PSG star Javier Pastore believes the Argentine maestro anticipated this resurgence.

While Messi’s first season in Paris wasn’t without challenges, only 11 goals and 15 assists, his adaptation to the French league wasn’t just about numbers.

Despite facing physical setbacks, he helped PSG secure the Ligue 1 title and began to settle into his new environment.

This season, however, it’s a different story.

Pastore, who now plays for Elche CF, is impressed by Messi’s evolution both physically and mentally. He shared his thoughts in an interview with Le Parisien (quoted by PSG Talk), stating:

“Last year, Messi was not at 100% physically. But this season, you can see the difference. He’s much better, and he knew he had to do more. Now, physically and mentally, he’s in top shape and ready for big matches.”

Messi’s Evolution | A Game Changer in PSG’s Attack

Pastore continued to highlight how Messi’s positioning has improved significantly.

“He’s now a complete playmaker. He’s evolved to make the team play and contribute more to the overall attack, not just finish it. He’s moved across the pitch, on the right, the left, linking up with teammates through quick passes. Messi is a very intelligent player, and he has understood that he needed to adapt.”

This evolution has been a defining factor in Messi’s 2022-2023 season. He’s shown great versatility, creating chances from various positions on the field, as well as finding the back of the net.

Messi’s Impressive Stats in the 2022-2023 Season

Messi’s influence has been undeniable. With eight goals and ten assists in just 14 appearances so far, the 35-year-old is back to his best.

His outstanding performances have played a huge role in PSG’s strong position in Ligue 1, where they currently sit five points clear at the top.

Most recently, Messi was integral to PSG’s 3-0 victory against AC Ajaccio, contributing two assists to Kylian Mbappé’s goals and scoring one himself.

This kind of form has helped PSG maintain control in both Ligue 1 and their UEFA Champions League group, where they lead with eight points from four matches.

Pastore: “I Knew Messi Would Bounce Back”

Reflecting on Messi’s current form, Pastore added:

“I watch all his matches, and it’s incredible to see how he’s playing now. He’s a different player this season. I was sure this would happen. I think he’s found his place on the pitch, and there’s a strong connection with the entire team.”