Lionel Messi’s much-anticipated showdown with his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, ended in disappointment as Inter Miami were thrashed 4-0 in the Club World Cup Round of 16. Despite the one-sided scoreline, former teammate and Swedish football legend Zlatan Ibrahimović came to Messi’s defence after the game, placing the blame not on the Argentine icon but on his struggling team.
A Grudge Match Ends in Humiliation
This clash had all the makings of a dramatic reunion. Messi, who played for PSG from 2021 to 2023, was hoping to get one back at the French giants after a difficult stint there, where he endured criticism and boos from the home crowd, especially after leading Argentina to a World Cup victory over France in 2022.
Since leaving Paris, Messi has openly criticised his time with the club, stating he was “never happy” during his stay. But any hopes of redemption quickly faded on the pitch as Miami were outclassed from start to finish. The gap in quality between the two sides was noticeable.
Zlatan: “This Isn’t Messi’s Failure”
Speaking after the match, Zlatan Ibrahimović had no doubts about who was responsible for the defeat, and it wasn’t Messi.
“Was this Messi’s failure? Not,” Zlatan told reporters. “Don’t make it seem like this is all on him. Messi didn’t lose. Inter Miami did. Have you seen that team? His teammates look like statues. He’s playing with mannequins, not footballers.”
The outspoken Swede continued, “If you put him in a real team, in Paris, in Manchester, with proper teammates, then you’ll see the lion in him. He’s still got that fire. Messi plays because he loves the game. He can still do things 99% of players can’t. But when he’s surrounded by teammates who move like they’re carrying bags of cement, what can he do?”
Ibrahimović didn’t stop there. He also criticised Miami’s coaching and tactics, saying the club isn’t providing Messi with the support or structure he needs.
“He doesn’t have the right coach. No star beside him understands his rhythm. No one knows how to run off the ball or play into his strengths. But give him the right team, the right setup, and Messi still dominates the pitch.”
What’s Next for Messi and Miami?
The defeat has once again raised questions about Inter Miami’s overall level and long-term ambitions. While Messi’s brilliance is unquestionable, it’s becoming increasingly clear that without stronger support around him, the team will struggle on the international stage.
But one thing is sure, for legends like Ibrahimović, Messi’s greatness remains untarnished.
“Messi hasn’t lost his magic,” Zlatan concluded. “But football is still a team game, and he can’t do it alone.”
