Lionel Messi has pointed out the positives from Neymar’s shock summer departure to Paris Saint-Germain, despite the initial disappointment at seeing the Brazilian leave the club.
“Neymar’s departure has led to a change in our playing style,” Messi, who signed his new contract at Camp Nou on Saturday, told German magazine Kicker as part of an interview with European Sports Media.
“We’ve lost some attacking power but we are better organised defensively. Our midfield is playing more calmly and we are better balanced. It has made us stronger defensively.”
“[Man] City have been one of the strongest teams so far this season together with PSG,” the Argentina international added.
“But the season is still young; I would never discount Real Madrid because of their class and experience, even though they aren’t picking up the expected results at the moment. Nor Bayern Munich — Bayern are the other big team that will be ready come the end of the season.”
“It’s only temporary,” Messi said of the idea that Madrid are in crisis. “It’s not the first time we see a club like Real in such a situation. In the end, though, because of their squad and players, they’ll be fighting for every title again. Because it’s always this way.”
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