Messi’s camp are concerned about PSG’s inability to dominate Ligue 1
Lionel Messi’s entourage reportedly hold doubts over Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino’s ‘tactical ability’ and believe that his gameplan is ‘too restrictive’.
Although the Parisians boast an 11 point lead at the top of Ligue 1, they have been criticised for a number of underwhelming performances this season – particularly in the Champions League.
Pochettino has struggled to impress in the hot-seat at the Parc des Princes, despite having a host of talented players at his disposal – including Messi.
The Argentine’s form has been mixed since his summer arrival from Barcelona, registering just one goal in Ligue 1 this season, despite scoring three times in four Champions League fixtures.
Now, his camp have taken aim at the PSG boss for the French side’s inability to dominate the division as initially expected, according to French newspaper L’Equipe.
The Parisians were forced to settle for draws against Lens and Nice in their last two matches, with Georginio Wijnaldum scoring in added-time to salvage a point against Lens on Saturday.
In Leo Messi's entourage doubts have arisen recently about Pochettino's tactical abilities & game plan. @lequipe 🇦🇷
— PSGhub (@PSGhub) December 6, 2021
Despite possessing one of the most exciting attacking tridents in world football, Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar have failed to properly click under Pochettino, with the former Spurs boss still unsure of his ideal line-up – opting not to play the same starting XI more than once this campaign.
With Neymar ruled out with yet another ankle injury, there is believed to be some confusion of how Mbappe and Messi will set-up.
Considering this, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s entourage are now concerned about Pochettino’s tactical ability, with the team’s style of play also being described as being too ‘restrictive’.
It is thought that there are concerns within the PSG dressing room that the Argentine is ‘not harsh enough’, with L’Equipe also claiming that the manager ‘strives on a daily basis’ to avoid arguments and show ‘consideration’.
Additionally, sources close to the club have told L’Equipe that Pochettino has ‘lost credit’ with some of his squad as a result of his approach.
PSG’s next fixture sees them take on Club Bruge in the Champions League on Tuesday, but they cannot top Group A as they trail Manchester City by four points.
Related links:
- Lionel Messi admits he would sometimes like to go ‘unnoticed’
- Lionel Messi to put seventh Ballon d’Or in Barcelona museum
- Gerard Pique told Barça president ‘nothing bad would happen’ if Messi left
