Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino has dismissed suggestions he is already going through an awkward patch with Lionel Messi following his substituting of the striker in the match against Lyon.
Pochettino substituted the 34-year-old – who had apparently seemed to be coping with a knee problem – during Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Lyon but Messi’s reaction on leaving the pitch clearly suggested he was confused and displeased with the decision.
However, Pochettino insisted there was no issue as PSG subsequently confirmed Messi had undergone a scan on his left knee and is awaiting a full assessment of the damage ahead of next week’s crucial Champions League clash with Manchester City.
He told a press conference ahead of Wednesday night’s trip to Metz: “In order to explain, on the sidelines we observe all the players and everything that is happening during games. We saw that Leo Messi was checking his knee and made some gestures. We saw that when he took a shot.
“I was pleased with his performance. He did very well in the first half. I am pleased with his commitment and performance. All that was missing was a goal.
“In his 75 minutes on the pitch – as I have explained – with all the information that we had, we made the decision to substitute him.”
Messi’s startled and displeased reaction started the gossip flowing, but Pochettino added: “Of course all top players want to be on the pitch at all times, that is understandable. I am calm about it.”
PSG, who host City next week, had earlier issued a statement on the former Barcelona star’s fitness.
The statement read: “Lionel Messi, who took a knock to his left knee against Lyon, underwent an MRI on Tuesday morning which confirmed signs of bruising of the bone. A follow-up examination will be carried out in 48 hours.”