Christophe Galtier hints at Lionel Messi, Hugo Ekitike & Kylian Mbappé front three for PSG

In a press conference on Friday attended to by Get French Football News sub-editor George Boxall, Christophe Galtier confirmed that Lionel Messi would start against Ajaccio, he also hinted that he may line up with Kylian Mbappé and Hugo Ekitike in a front three.

When asked about whether the Frenchman thought about changing PSG’s formation to accommodate the 2022 World Cup winner, Galtier revealed that he had been exploring two possible systems during training on the eve of the match. “Yes, I’ve thought about that. We’ve worked on two formations, and one of them involves three attackers.”

One option involves deploying Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Hugo Ekitike together. The former Reims man did not score or assist against Troyes last week, but looked effective in build-up play and offered himself as an interesting option in possession. He may be rewarded with another start against Ajaccio tomorrow evening. 

Christophe Galtier:

“I spoke to Leo Messi on Tuesday to see what mindset he was in. He was very calm. I thought he was very motivated to play and determined to win another trophy. Yes, he will start tomorrow.”

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— Get French Football News (@GFFN) May 12, 2023

GFFN | George Boxall