Paris Saint-Germain has undergone noticeable shifts after the departures of Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Marco Verratti, according to former France international Frank Leboeuf. He observes that the club has moved toward a more balanced setup and broader leadership on the pitch, with new players and a refreshed tactical approach taking center stage. Leboeuf notes that a former stronghold of PSG’s identity was built on individual brilliance, but the current chapter emphasizes collective resilience and a sharper pressing game. The acquisition of senior midfielder Bruno Ugarte stands out to him as a decisive gain, bringing both leadership presence and tenacious competition to the midfield, elements that PSG has needed for a long time. He also highlights manager Luis Enrique’s attacking philosophy, which emphasizes quick transition play and organized counter-pressing when possession is lost, a framework that aims to keep the team compact and aggressive high up the field.
Messi’s move to Inter Miami occurred in the summer of 2023 after two successful seasons with the Paris club, culminating in a debut that featured a direct free-kick goal. In August of that year, Messi claimed his first trophy in North America: Inter Miami captured the League Cup by defeating Nashville in a dramatic shootout that finished 10-9 after extra time. This victory represented a milestone for the club in MLS competition and underscored Messi’s influence as a global star who can shape outcomes in American soccer, even as he built a new chapter in a different league. (Source attribution: contemporary sports coverage)
Neymar’s switch to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia came during the same summer transfer window. The official unveiling occurred on August 19, with Transfermarkt recording the move at a reported 90 million euros. The transfer marked a significant reshaping of PSG’s forward line, opening space for new tactical configurations while triggering adjustments across the squad as it adapts to the absence of a long-time creative engine in Neymar. (Source attribution: transfer market reporting)
Marco Verratti’s departure to Qatar’s Al-Arabi was confirmed on September 13, marking the end of an era for a player who had been central to PSG’s midfield balance for years. His exit required the club to recalibrate its engine room, bringing in fresh options and different midfield dynamics to sustain PSG’s competitive edge in domestic and European competitions. (Source attribution: club statements and transfer coverage)
The broader conversation about Messi’s non-participation in the U.S. Open Cup final has been framed by observers as part of a strategic choice by the Inter Miami coaching staff, reflecting decisions about player workload, team rotation, and game-specific tactics. This context helps explain how the former Paris star continues to influence major fixtures even after leaving the French capital, illustrating the evolving nature of player careers across leagues and continents. (Source attribution: post-match analysis)