PSG drama: was Pochettino right in subbing Lionel Messi off?

Lionel Messi and Mauricio Pochettino have created a controversial atmosphere around PSG after their substitution row and it is continuing to generate more news in the media. Many are asking if Pochettino was right to substitute Messi, others are asking if Messi was right to snub Pochettino's handshake. It is also reportedly generating unrest in the club.

What did Pochettino say?

Pochettino defended his actions as a sign of concern for Messi's fitness and also downplayed the handshake snub and said Messi told him he was fine and it was a normal situation for him to be subbed. "Everyone knows we have great players on the team. We have a very rich squad of 35 players. Then we have to make choices. With the 11 who must start. And then we have to make decisions during the game. Sometimes these choices pay off and sometimes they don't. But that's why we're standing in front of the bench thinking about what to do. And those decisions that you have to make, whether things go well or not. Whether you like it or not."

Messi is injured, Pochettino is right.

PSG earlier today reported that Lionel Messi has suffered and injury in his left knee and will miss their next game against Metz and could miss more games. The injury to Lionel Messi shortly after the incident justified Mauricio Pochettino's decision to sub off the Argentine. "Lionel Messi, who took a knock to his left knee against Lyon, underwent an MRI on Tuesday morning which confirmed signs of bruising of the bone. A follow-up examination will be carried out in 48 hours." the club statement said.

What would have happened if Messi wasn't removed?

The French league is known for its physicality and Lionel Messi will be a target of fouls and may have many injuries in the Ligue 1. He had been kicked down a few times in the match before he was removed. If he wasn't substituted in the match, the injury could have been serious and rule him out for a longer time.

Was Messi right to snub Pochettino's handshake?

No, it is unprofessional for a player to disrespect his coach. It doesn't matter the situation that happened and the conversation they had, it was wrong to snub his handshake. Clubs take disciplinary actions against players for such acts.

Video of Messi ignoring Pochettino