Lionel Messi performances led to claims of psychological struggle.
Juventus manager and former club legend, Andrea Pirlo, has stated that Lionel Messi is probably going through a psychological or mental issue.
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The Argentine has not been in top form since the start of this season and his performances have really regressed. It’s completely natural for a footballer to succumb to physical issues as they hit the mark of 30 years of age in their career but as Lionel Messi is arguably the greatest footballer of all time and the captain of the club, he is presumed with total responsibility. The fingers are always pointed at Lionel Messi if Barcelona draw or lose.
Ahead of this week’s clash with Barcelona at the Nou Camp, the former AC Milan player stated that Lionel Messi may not be mentally fit. He feels that the 33-year-old may not be mentally satisfied or happy with his current state and the current situation in Barcelona. This mental block or psychological issue has led to the 33-year-old dropping absolute average performances so far this season. His statistics have also been absolutely average so far.
"“[Messi] is at a special moment in his life, not in his career, because he had a problem this summer, [It’s about] whether he would stay at Barcelona or not. But during games he has always shown his value. More than a football [issue], he probably has a psychological problem. Messi is a phenomenon and he has shown it.” Pirlo speaking in a press conference on Monday.Source Goal via Marca"
Lionel Messi had handed in a transfer request as he pleaded a move out of the Nou Camp in the summer transfer window of 2020. However, due to legal complications, his wish was not fulfilled and he did not want to take this matter into a further stage. Hence, hypothetically it’s a compromise from Lionel Messi’s side which may be the reason for the psychological problem which the former Italian International is talking about. The fact that the Argentine did not get to leave when he wanted to could be a huge factor in his recent drop in performances.
Multiple reports suggest that the playmaker is being targeted by Paris Saint-Germain as they want to reunite him and Neymar Jr. It is looking like a huge possibility, with PSG being well equipped to afford his wages.
Will Messi want to continue at Barca after the Juve loss?