Why Messi, Mbappé, & Neymar Attack Didn’t Work Out at PSG? Leonardo Reveals

Paris Saint-Germain’s two seasons with their attack led by Lionel Messi, Mbappé, and Neymar Jr. didn’t produce much success. The capital club failed to move past the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 and barely won the 2022-23 Ligue 1 title.

The failed experiment resulted in the capital club making drastic changes this summer transfer window. Messi left the French giants as a free agent once his contract expired on June 30.

Furthermore, Neymar is now playing in Saudi Arabia after Al-Hilal reportedly paid €90 million for the Brazilian. While it seemed as though Mbappé would be on the way out, he’s now at the center of the project.

So why did this trio fail? Former sporting director Leonardo spoke with Globo Esporte (h/t Gianluca Di Marzio) and explained his reason for why these three attackers couldn’t lead to European glory.

“I don’t think the ego has anything to do with it,” Leonardo said. “These are guys who solve more problems than they create. If you think you need to solve their problem, you’re part of it. You have to take on burdens and honors. It’s part of the game.

“If you build such an attack, you have done your best. If it doesn’t work, it’s not for just one reason. Managers have to put certain players in condition and make them feel good. Whoever wins the championship in the end is the club.”

PSG now has a new attack trio that includes Mbappé alongside his teammates on the French national team, Ousmane Dembélé and Randal Kolo Muani. Will these three work out? Only time will tell.