Kylian Mbappe has criticised the lack of respect that Lionel Messi was shown in France following the forward’s exit from Paris Saint-Germain.
Messi has confirmed he will leave Paris Saint-Germain when his contract expires later this month and the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has agreed a deal to sign for MLS side Inter Miami.
Messi signed for PSG from Barcelona two seasons ago and has since won back-to-back Ligue 1 titles with the club, scoring 32 goals and providing 35 assists in 75 appearances in all competitions.
Despite that record, Messi endured a difficult time in French football and was often a target for criticism from the club’s fans.
Mbappe has criticised the lack of respect shown to the Argentine and admits it is ‘never good news’ when ‘one of greatest players in the history of football’ leaves Ligue 1.
“He’s one of greatest player in the history of football. It’s never good news when someone like Messi leaves,” Mbappe told La Gazzette dello Sport.
“I don’t quite understand why so many people were so relieved that he was gone. He didn’t get the respect he deserved in France.”