Messi talks Champions League, Verratti, facing Barcelona during PSG presentation

Lionel Messi has spoken in his presentation conference at Parc des Paris, accompanied by the club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi.

On why he chose for PSG

“I have acquaintances and friends in the PSG dressing room. Both Paris and I were looking for the same goals, one of the reasons for the signing is the dressing room [Di Maria, Neymar, Paredes], which played a big role for me to choose this club.

“When I spoke to Leonardo, the first thing I asked was whether my family could get used to the city, the country well… I hope to get used to it fast, I’m very excited to get started. This is new to us but from a sporting perspective, I’m prepared.”

On his goal

“I am more eager than ever. My goal is to win the Champions League. I am at the ideal place to achieve it.”

Lionel Messi during the presentation. pic.twitter.com/VlaQuGFWIf

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) August 11, 2021

On potentially facing Barcelona

“I am happy to be here, although it was very difficult to leave Barcelona.

“I will always be grateful for the affection of the Barcelona fans, this is my home. They know that I like to win and that I came to a competitive team.

“I don’t know if we’re going to face Barça. On the one hand it’s going to be nice to go back to Barcelona, and on the other hand it’s going to be very weird to play at home again with another shirt.”

On linking up with Neymar and Mbappe

“I am very happy, it is really crazy. The team is incredible and I really want to train and compete now because I am going to be playing with the best players. It is an incredible experience.”

On Verratti

“He’s one of the best in the world in his position, he was going to come to Barcelona, and now it’s the other way around; I’m the one who comes here. He is a phenomenon, I will be able to witness it in a person too now.”

Source: PSG’s official live stream