Lionel Messi reaches stunning career milestone in PSG's 2-1 win against Auxerre
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) superstar Lionel Messi reached yet another stunning career milestone as the Parisians beat AJ Auxerre 2-1 in Ligue 1 on Sunday (May 21).
Messi provided an assist for Kylian Mbappe to reach 300 club career assists, an incredible feat. He also became the first player in Europe's top five leagues this season to record 20 goals and as many assists across competitions.
Kylian Mbappe scored a brace inside eight minutes for PSG. After being set up by Fabian Ruiz, the Frenchman scored a spectacular goal for his first in the sixth minute.
Messi was the provider when Mbappe bagged his second of the night in the eighth minute. The Frenchman has now scored 40 goals and provided nine assists in 41 games across competitions this season.
The Parisians, meanwhile, are on the cusp of winning the Ligue 1 yet again. They have 84 points from 36 games and lead second placed RC Lens by six points.
Barcelona superstar Robert Lewandowski makes bold claim involving PSG superstar Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi's future at PSG is in doubt. The Argentine is in the final few weeks of his current deal. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, he will leave at the end of the season when his contract expires.
Messi has been heavily linked with a return to Barcelona. Striker Robert Lewandowski has now sounded a transfer plea to the Blaugrana, saying that he wants to play alongside Messi at the Camp Nou. The Polish striker told Merczyki (via GOAL):
“I want to play with Messi here in Barcelona. He has changed his style in recent years. It is easier to play with players who understand football as deeply as he does.”
While Barca are keen on bringing Messi back, they need to sort out their financial situation first. The club reportedly need to reduce €200 million from their wage bill to register new players in the summer.
Sergio Busquets is set to leave at the end of the season. While that might help, Barca will still need to jettison other players to make Lionel Messi's proposed return a reality.