Lionel Messi Paris Saint-Germain training session
Lionel Messi has been included in Paris Saint-Germain’s matchday squad for the first time for Sunday’s trip to Reims although he’s not certain to play.
PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino spoke to the media on Saturday ahead of Sunday’s game which looms as Messi’s maiden appearance since his blockbuster move from Barcelona.
The Argentine forward was named in PSG’s 22-man squad for the game but Pochettino said they were yet to decide if he’ll play.
“We need to analyse, and we will decide later,” Pochettino said.
He added: “He is very motivated. He’s a great professional who is adapting very fast to his new teammates and a new context. He can adapt to a new league.”
Messi has not played competitively since lifting the Copa America with Argentina in early July, with his lack of match fitness holding him back in previous weeks.
PSG, who spent big over the off-season, have won three from three Ligue 1 games this term without Messi.
The Parisians were runners-up to Lille last season and have added Sergio Ramos, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Georginio Wijnaldum and Messi.
PSG have scored 10 goals from their three games in the league, with Mauro Icardi scoring twice.
