Life in France hasn't exactly been the easiest transition for Lionel Messi, who has struggled since joining PSG. On top of that, he's dealt with several minor injuries that have kept him sidelined at times.
In a 2-1 victory over title-holders Lille on Friday, the Argentine was subbed off at halftime by Mauricio Pochettino. The PSG boss explained why he made the decision. Via NBC Sports:
“We have to wait. We were with the doctors at halftime and it was a precaution. He could not continue. We hope that it’s not a big problem,” Pochettino told Prime Video Sport in France.
Kylian Mbappe missed the Lille clash due to an ear infection, which likely made Messi feel like he had to play to make up for the loss of their leading goal-getter.
Messi has shown moments of brilliance for PSG since his high-profile summer move, but it's been mostly in the Champions League. the former Barcelona man has bagged three goals in as many appearances in Europe, but he's yet to find the back of the net in Ligue 1, featuring in just five matches.
It's important to note that Messi had a very busy summer, propelling Argentina to their first Copa America title ever. There wasn't much of a break for him, which is certainly playing a part. After all, he is 34-years-old.
It's not like PSG is hurting domestically without Messi contributing in the final third, though. The Parisians are 10 points clear at the top of the table with a 10-1-1 record, with Mbappe with five goals. However, if they're going to be a legitimate contender in the UCL, Messi will need to be at 100%.
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