Djeidi Gassama, the former Paris Saint-Germain winger, recently recounted his unique experience training with football legends Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., and Kylian Mbappe at PSG. Now signed with Rangers FC in Scotland, the 21-year-old reflected on the importance of those early years in shaping his professional career and the lessons he absorbed while working closely with some of the sport’s top stars.
Speaking to Rangers TV, Gassama described his start at PSG’s youth academy and what it was like stepping into a professional environment alongside such renowned players.
“I started there [PSG] when I was young, playing for the Under-19s. My first professional game for Paris Saint-Germain was crazy. They had lots of players like Messi, Mbappe and Neymar. It was crazy. This was a good experience for me to train with them.”
—Djeidi Gassama, Former PSG Winger
Joining PSG’s youth setup in 2019, Gassama made his senior debut in 2022. He emphasized the dedication and intensity that Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe brought to every training session.
“I learned lots from them, like when they go to the gym and to the pitch, they always give 100 percent. You have to show them that you’ll do the same. Training with them was like playing in a game,”
—Djeidi Gassama, Former PSG Winger
Among the trio, Gassama had the chance to play only with Messi and Mbappe, featuring alongside each star just once during his brief time on the senior team.
The Dynamics Between Neymar, Mbappe, and Messi at PSG
Earlier this year, Neymar shed light on the complex relationships within PSG’s star-forward trio. He revealed tensions between Mbappe and Messi, suggesting jealousy affected their partnership after Messi’s arrival from Barcelona.
On a podcast hosted by former Brazil striker Romario, Neymar spoke candidly about the evolving dynamics with Mbappe after Messi joined:
“No, he is not. I have my things with him, we had a little fight, but he was fundamental for us when he arrived. I used to call him golden boy. I always played with him, said he was going to be one of the best. I always helped, talked to him, he came to my place, we had dinner together.
—Neymar Jr., PSG Forward
“We had some good years of partnership, but after Messi came he was a little jealous. He didn’t want to split me with anyone. And then there were some fights, a change in behavior.”
—Neymar Jr., PSG Forward
These remarks highlight the challenges of blending three superstar personalities on one team, despite shared successes on the field.
Achievements and Challenges of PSG’s Star-Studded Trio
Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe starred together at PSG from 2021 to 2023. During their time, the club secured two Ligue 1 titles, a Coupe de France trophy, and a Trophee des Champions.
However, the ultimate prize, the UEFA Champions League, eluded them, as PSG were knocked out in the round of 16 during both seasons Messi featured. Despite strong individual performances and domestic dominance, the trio could not translate their collective talent into European glory.
Significance of Training with World-Class Players for Young Talents
Gassama’s experience training alongside such high-caliber stars provided him with a clear example of professionalism, perseverance, and commitment at the top level of football. Witnessing firsthand how Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe approached each session instilled important values that could shape his own career going forward.
As Gassama embarks on his next chapter at Rangers FC, his insights underline the impact that training with Lionel Messi and stars like Neymar and Mbappe can have on emerging footballers striving to leave their mark in the sport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi religious?
A. Lionel Messi identifies as a Roman Catholic. Though he doesn’t often talk about his religion in public, he sometimes mentions his belief in God and appreciation for his skills.