Gianluigi Donnarumma has expressed his determination to lead Paris Saint-Germain to victory against Lionel Messi‘s Inter Miami in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16. The Italian goalkeeper, who shared the field with Messi at PSG, praised the Argentine as the best player in the world and emphasized his hope of winning rather than simply meeting the superstar.
Following the confirmation of the PSG versus Inter Miami fixture, Donnarumma spoke openly about his eagerness to advance in the tournament, highlighting the challenge of facing a player like Messi.
“Facing Messi? It would be amazing. We played two years with the greatest player in the world. But I hope we win, because he has already won many awards.”
—Gianluigi Donnarumma, PSG Goalkeeper
Recounting Donnarumma’s Time with Messi at PSG
Donnarumma reflected on his experiences training alongside Messi during their two seasons together at PSG, where they secured consecutive Ligue 1 titles and the 2022 Trophee des Champions. He recalled how Messi’s skill made practice sessions particularly challenging, especially during rondo drills, where Messi’s control of the ball was unmatched.
“My memories with Messi at PSG? Leo is amazing… We were playing rondo, and I would go to the other group because if Leo was with you, you had to run, and your legs felt stuck. In small spaces, no one could take the ball from him. I can’t believe how that was possible! He was incredible even in training. I swear to you, when we played in training, it was unbelievable. I don’t know how… how that was possible. As a person, I can tell you that Messi was incredible. He treated you with great respect and gave you advice. He was very humble.”
—Gianluigi Donnarumma, PSG Goalkeeper
Inter Miami’s Progress Signals Challenge for PSG, Says Mascherano
Javier Mascherano, coach of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, acknowledged the step up in competition level that awaits them in the Club World Cup. After securing their spot in the knockout stages, Mascherano emphasized the team’s readiness to face a European giant like PSG, underlining the belief that they can compete with some of the best clubs in the world.
Speaking about the upcoming battle against PSG, Mascherano conveyed confidence despite the challenges, referencing the experience gained in the tournament so far.
“This level of competition isn’t something we regularly encounter in our domestic league. We’ve shown we have no complexes. It’s been a huge learning experience, and we have rightfully earned the privilege to play the European champions. We’ll strive to match them, but at the end of the day, it’s still 11 against 11.”
—Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami Head Coach
What Lies Ahead in the Club World Cup Clash
PSG and Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are set to face off on Sunday at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup. With Donnarumma’s desire to win and Mascherano’s belief in their team’s capabilities, the match promises intense competition marked by skill, experience, and determination.
This encounter not only pits two teams from different leagues against each other but also reunites former teammates in a clash filled with personal and professional pride. The outcome will significantly impact both teams’ momentum in the tournament, shaping their path forward in this prestigious global event.