Former PSG star Lionel Messi has been named among the most influential figures in sport in an updated list from Sports Illustrated. Here’s how the Parisian club is dealing with his absence.

Germain's transition away from the superstar era has been noted, encompassing the departure of Neymar Jr., Lionel Messi, and Mbappé, causing the club to lose its allure. (OneFootball) / AP 2/5: PSG's shift towards young talent and players fitting into Enrique’s tactics has not translated into financial success,

L’Equipe reports that since Lionel Messi and Neymar left, PSG haven’t attracted the same media buzz, and its shirt sales have dropped significantly. The club and Ligue 1 aren’t seeing the same leverage in sponsorship deals and overseas TV contracts, either.

Having been bought by Qatar Sports Investments in 2011, the French capital became a hotspot and attracted the likes of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. The French champions began their 2024/25 Champions League campaign on Wednesday night with a 1-0 win over newcomers Girona.