Barcelona’s new signing talks on Lionel Messi’s unexpected departure

Barcelona’s new signing Memphis Depay opened up earlier this week on his thoughts on Lionel Messi’s sudden and unexpected departure from the Catalan capital.

“I didn’t even get to know Messi. He came late to pre-season because of the break after the Copa America and I couldn’t even say hello to him,” said the Dutch forward.

Lionel Messi’s shocking departure and transfer to Paris Saint Germain earlier this month took the world by storm. It was a move that very few anticipated, for even Barcelona president Joan Laporta was convinced that the captain would stay till the last moment.

Understandably, the sudden move comes as a massive shock to the new signings. It was never in doubt that the Argentine’s aura was the decisive factor for many of the players who joined the Blaugranas.

The opportunity to play with the greatest player of all time fields an unparalleled pull and appeal. Even Sergio Aguero, who has played with Messi for years at the international level, joined Barcelona only to play alongside his friend.

Memphis Depay and Lionel Messi were expected to form a lethal combination for Barcelona in the attack. The Dutch forward’s playing style would have suited the Argentine’s vision perfectly. However, that is a story of what could have been and is far from reality.

Depay made his debut for Barcelona against Real Sociedad. The new signing had an instant impact on the game when he assisted the first goal of the season through an immaculately placed set piece. He will indeed have a crucial part to play this season.

Source: Barça TV+