Football BaBe
The Enchanting Night That Lured Messi to Paris: Verratti’s Insider Story
Discover how a spontaneous gathering in Ibiza turned into a pivotal moment for football history, as Marco Verratti shares the behind-the-scenes details of convincing Lionel Messi to join PSG. This revelation highlights the personal bonds and unexpected twists that shaped one of the sport’s biggest transfers.
- Verratti reveals his role in bringing Messi to PSG
- Midfielder recalls magical evening in Ibiza
- Italian played 416 games for the Parisians
Uncovering the Surprise Ibiza Gathering That Sealed Messi’s PSG Move
In a candid chat, Marco Verratti opened up about a remarkable evening where his former PSG colleague Neymar organized an impromptu meal with Lionel Messi, who was then committed to Barcelona. Joining them were Angel Di Maria and Leandro Paredes, creating a casual yet influential setting that unexpectedly paved the way for Messi’s blockbuster transfer to the French powerhouse.
Messi’s Dramatic Shift to PSG Amid Barcelona’s Financial Turmoil
The Argentine legend stunned the world with his no-cost move to PSG in 2021, following Barcelona’s announcement that escalating debts prevented them from renewing his deal. Upon landing in Paris, expectations soared sky-high, though the team fell short of Champions League success and Messi didn’t quite dazzle as anticipated. Still, Verratti cherishes that pivotal night in Ibiza as a potential catalyst, likening it to a serendipitous plot twist in a gripping novel that altered the course of careers.
Verratti Recounts the ‘Magical’ Dinner Persuasion with Neymar and Messi
During his discussion with Gazzetta, Verratti painted a vivid picture: “Picture this unforgettable Ibiza night that felt like pure enchantment. Neymar pulls me aside, whispering that Messi would be joining us for dinner. Suddenly, it’s me, Paredes, Neymar, Di Maria, and Leo all sharing stories and laughs. We subtly nudge him toward the idea of Paris life. As the evening winds down, we part ways, only to wake up to news of tensions at Barcelona. By afternoon, Neymar rings me up: ‘Marco, Leo’s heading our way.’ From dinner companions to teammates overnight – truly spellbinding.”
Messi’s Thriving Chapter at Inter Miami and Beyond
Today, Lionel Messi continues to shine brightly with Inter Miami in the MLS, boasting an impressive tally of 25 goals across 29 appearances as of mid-2024, including standout performances that have elevated the league’s global appeal. Fans eagerly await their upcoming Leagues Cup clash against Atlas, where Messi’s magic could once again steal the spotlight, much like his seamless integration into new teams throughout his illustrious career.
