Proof that it is possible to be stronger without Lionel Messi

If Lionel Messi is on the field, then the chances are that the team he represents will emerge victorious.

The most decorated player of all-time has accumulated 46 major trophies over the course of his career, and remains very much in the market for more.

Inter Miami, with the most iconic of No.10s on their books, are priced at +350 for MLS Cup glory this season, while Argentina are +800 fancies to defend their World Cup crown in 2026.

Messi’s unique brand of magic means that he will never be written off in any competition.

An argument is, however, forming in Europe that proves it is possible to be stronger without the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner at your disposal.

Crown

Paris Saint-Germain had Messi on their books between 2021 and 2023, but failed to land an elusive Champions League crown.

They are now -500 in PSG vs Arsenal odds to reach the final in 2025 and earn another shot at continental glory.

Champions League betting has Luis Enrique’s side as +125 favorites to make history by lifting the most prestigious of trophies for the first time, with the power of collective talent being harnessed in the French capital.

No longer are moments of individual brilliance required in order to determine the outcome of any given contest, with a well-oiled machine able to move through the gears together.

Messi always gave PSG a chance, especially when operating in partnership with fellow World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe and Brazilian legend Neymar.

The class of 2025 is more than the sum of its parts.

Former player and coach Luis Fernandez has said: “I say bravo to them. Neymar, Messi, Mbappe had talent, but we had to get them the ball.”

He has previously stated on the decision to move away from signing so-called superstars: “For me, if PSG had the Messi from when he was at Barca, I would say that it was better with Messi and Neymar, but this PSG is much more of a team.”

Rewards are being reaped there.

Another Ligue 1 title has been wrapped up, while Enrique’s men are -600 to add another French Cup triumph to their honors board.

They are also +900 to emerge victorious at the newly-expanded FIFA Club World Cup this summer – with Messi’s current employers in Miami only coming in at +3300.

Conundrum

Messi was never a problem in Paris, as he quietly went about his work over the course of two seasons that delivered more medals in domestic competition.

He is, however, not the answer to every sporting conundrum.

While his ability remains without question, and pairing him with other match-winners is always a recipe for success, he cannot conjure up miracles.

PSG found themselves leaning too heavily on an attacking trio that dominated headlines off the field and possession on it.

Others have now been given an opportunity to shine under the brightest of spotlights.

They are thriving, having been entrusted with added responsibility, and the record books could be rewritten without Messi having to figure prominently in that entry.