Messi makes PSG debut as Parisians sweep Reims 2-0

The wait finally ended as Argentine football star Lionel Messi made his Paris St-Germain debut as a 66th-minute substitute in a 2-0 win at Reims in Ligue 1, the first time he has played for a club different from FC Barcelona.

The Argentine, wearing his new number 30 PSG shirt, received a standing ovation as he replaced his friend Neymar in front of a sell-out crowd.

“He is still far away from his best form but he has been training well and he will be fit in the next two weeks,” boss Mauricio Pochettino said.

“We are waiting for the best from him. I’m very happy that he made his debut. It was very important for him.

“He was good, from his first touches he gave the team peace of mind. It’s good for him to start with a win.

“It was good to hear the crowd cheering for him, not just our supporters, it’s something Leo has earned.”

Kylian Mbappe scored both goals on what could be his final appearance for the club, with Real Madrid keen to sign him before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.

Real Madrid have made a 160m euro bid to sign the 22-year-old, who has now scored 135 goals in 175 games for PSG.

His first goal was a header from an Angel di Maria cross and for his second he swept home Achraf Hakimi’s cross.

“Kylian is our player and you know that in football and in business there is always gossip and rumours,” Pochettino said.

“I think our president and our sporting director were very clear and he is still here. I am really happy to have Kylian.

“He is one of the best, one of the most important players in the world today, and for him to be with us is a gift.”

PHOTO/COURTESY