Lionel Messi aims rare public dig at former club PSG as World Cup claim made

Lionel Messi has aimed a dig at former club Paris Saint-Germain, claiming that he did not receive recognition for winning the World Cup.

Messi finally led Argentina to the iconic prize over in Qatar and got his hands on the only trophy which had evaded him in his career.

He was crowned as player of the tournament, scoring in every round, including twice in the thrilling final against France where Argentina prevailed on penalties.

Messi was worshipped by Argentines for delivering a first World Cup since 1986 but according to the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, he was the only player not to get some props from his club.

"I was the only player that didn't receive recognition from the club compared to my 25 other teammates," Messi told Olga.

Messi did receive a special guard of honour from his PSG teammates upon his return from a 10-day break following the celebrations, but it appears his issue is with the top brass.

He had reportedly wanted to present the World Cup at the Parc des Princes prior to a game but the club feared the reaction would be negative given Argentina beat teammate Kylian Mbappe and France.

The Barcelona legend did not have a good relationship with the club's ultras and left after two seasons following the expiration of his contract, signing for David Beckham's Inter Miami franchise in the MLS.

Image: Getty

Messi has looked like he is enjoying playing club football again, scoring 11 times and captaining Inter to two cup finals.

He missed a couple of games while on international duty with Argentina but had to sit out La Albiceleste's game against Bolivia in La Paz due to a slight knock.

Messi returned for Inter on Thursday night but was substituted before half-time in the 4-0 hammering of Toronto FC.