PSG manager Christophe Galtier has revealed that Lionel Messi asked to be substituted in the Champions League match against Benfica on Wednesday night.
The Argentina international scored a spectacular goal in the first half in PSG’s 1-1 draw with Benfica but didn’t play the complete 90 minutes as he asked to be substituted late on.
Messi’s goal put his side ahead but they were later pegged back by the home side just before the break.
The Parisien attack struggled against a resolute Benfica defence in the second half and were hence unable to add to their tally.
It came as a shock to many as Galtier hooked off Messi with his side trying hard for a winner in the closing stages. The Argentina captain was pictured walking straight down the tunnel following the substitution.
However, the manager has revealed it was the former Barcelona man who asked to be substituted because he was tired.
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“He gestured saying he wanted to be substituted,” Galtier told RMC Sport. “On the last play, he felt tired. He came off because he was tired and a fresh team-mate was a lot more interesting at that moment.”
Messi has been in sensational form for club and country so far this season with the 35-year-old racking up goals and assists for his sides.
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