Pochettino speaks out on Messi and Ramos to PSG rumours

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 19 May 2021 15:43 BST
• 2 min read

Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos of Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively are not necessary for Paris Saint-Germain to achieve their goal of winning the Champions League, head coach Mauricio Pochettino has said.

Pochettino arrived at the Ligue 1 champions during the winter break and has been tasked with leading the club to their maiden European Cup. In reaching last term’s final, they came closer than ever before.

The PSG boss was asked about the club’s transfer strategy, but played down the importance of signing established players.

Quizzed if he would prefer PSG to target proven stars like Messi and Ramos or players hungry to taste success, Pochettino told RMC: “That’s something to discuss with the club, with sporting director Leonardo and our president.

“Our club, like the others, have strategies to improve the squad and the team.

“Together, we take decisions and think about what’s required to bring the best out of the team, especially the strategy to bring wins and it’s with that in mind we take our decisions.

“The response could be, in many cases, yes, and in other cases no. It depends on the composition of the squad at our disposal.

“Obviously, when we sign player they must add to the squad and must integrate in a way that helps the team improve and allows it to function in a better manner.

“Many times, that’s what PSG have done in the past but at other times, it could also be better to bring in another type of player.”

Messi and Ramos are out of contract with Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively in June and free to negotiate terms with any sides they wish. PSG could pick both up on free transfers this summer, with Neymar having already indicated his wish to play with the Argentine at Parc des Princes.