When Lionel Messi was replaced in Paris Saint-Germain’s draw with Monaco, his expression was absolute.
The Ligue One champions are still unblemished and in first place of the standings after four games thanks to a penalty kick from Neymar in the second half that negated Kevin Volland’s opening goal.
Messi was also given the hook by PSG manager Christophe Galtier after participating in all 90 minutes of his previous 22 games.
In the 87th minute, with PSG still trying to win, he left the field and was replaced by Pablo Sarabia.
Messi, a seven-time winner of the Ballon d’Or, though, appeared unimpressed when the cameras switched to him sitting on the sideline.
A player of Messi’s caliber would typically only be replaced due to injury or after receiving a standing ovation during a convincing victory.
Guardiola is quoted as stating, according to The Mirror, “You have to listen very closely to what he has to say and understand that he must never be substituted off the pitch.”
He made a terrific first-half strike against Monaco that hit the post and bounced back into Kylian Mbappe’s path, who somehow managed to hit the woodwork again from six yards out.
PSG will attempt to defeat Toulouse on Wednesday in an effort to resume its winning ways after dropping points for the first time this season.
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