Lionel Messi consoled by Ousmane Dembele and other old team-mates after Inter Miami's PSG thrashing

 Lionel Messi found some comfort in familiar faces following Inter Miami’s heavy 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at the FIFA Club World Cup, according to Daily Mail. Despite the tough loss, the sight of former team-mates rallying around the Argentine superstar highlighted the enduring bonds forged over years of playing together.

Messi, who played the full 90 minutes against the reigning European champions, appeared visibly dejected at times during the one-sided match. However, support came swiftly from former Barcelona colleague Ousmane Dembele, who entered the game as a substitute in the 62nd minute, with PSG already leading comfortably. The two shared a touching moment in the tunnel after the match, walking arm in arm and exchanging shirts, symbolizing friendship beyond club rivalries, according to Daily Mail.

The emotional exchange didn’t stop there. PSG manager Luis Enrique, who famously managed Messi during his trophy-laden spell at Barcelona, brought a smile to the 38-year-old’s face with a friendly gesture, including stroking Messi’s hair. Additionally, Messi shook hands with former PSG teammates Gianluigi Donnarumma and Presnel Kimpembe, reinforcing the respect and camaraderie shared among the players.

Dembele later posted a photo on Instagram of himself proudly posing with Messi’s Inter Miami jersey while Messi wore Dembele’s PSG shirt. “It’s so good to see you again,” Dembele wrote. “@leomessi, the best of all time… I hope you continue making history with him @intermiamicf as in this Club World Cup.”

Although Inter Miami’s journey in the tournament ended with the heavy defeat, the team exceeded expectations by progressing beyond the group stage unbeaten. Miami recorded draws against Al Ahly and Palmeiras and secured a 2-1 win over Porto, marking a commendable run.

PSG will now face Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals after the German champions overcame Flamengo 4-2, setting the stage for another blockbuster clash.