Pochettino Defends Decision To Sub Messi

Pochettino Defends Decision To Sub Messi
Posted: 20 September 2021

French giants Paris Saint Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has defended his decision to haul off global superstar Lionel Messi in the 75th minute whist they needed a goal.

Pochettino subbed the Argentine skipper with fifteen (15) minutes left to play and with the scoreline at 1-1, it was surprising to see Messi being taken off. However, Pochettino has explained the reason behind the unpopular decision, saying;

“I think we all know we have great players in this 35-man squad. Only 11 can play, we can’t play more. The decisions in the game are made for the good of the team and each player.”

“Every coach thinks about that. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. Sometimes players like it and sometimes they don’t. At the end of the day, that’s why we’re here.

“These are decisions that have to be made by the coach. As for his reaction, I asked him how he was, he said he was okay. That was it. That was our exchange,” he concluded.

La Pulga, has Messi is known in football circles, was less pleased with the decision and didn’t bother shaking hands with his manager.

Article By;
Chris Wheatley, London, England.