Memphis Depay has revealed that he did not get to speak with Lionel Messi before he departed Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain.
Depay was originally going to sign for Barça last summer, only for La Liga to block the move due to salary cap regulations. He bounced back from this disappointment tremendously last season, registering 20 goals and 12 assists for Lyon in Ligue 1.
One of the main draws for Depay would have been the potential to play with Messi. However, Barça were prevented from agreeing a new deal with La Pulga and he subsequently joined PSG on a free transfer.
Speaking to El Periodico (via Barca Universal), Depay revealed that he did not have any contact with the legendary forward before he left.
"I didn’t even get to know him [Messi]. He came late to the pre-season because of the break after the Copa América and I couldn’t even say hello to him," he said.
Depay has settled in well at Camp Nou, impressing in pre-season and also setting up Gerard Pique for the opener in his side’s 4-2 win over Real Sociedad last Sunday. He went on to confirm that he is gelling with his new teammates.
"Everyone has been very nice and they have made it easy for me. Piqué has helped me a lot because his English is good. With Alba I also have a lot of fun. Of course, Frenkie and Dest, because I already knew them. It’s a nice dressing room," he said.
Depay said that his relationship with Barça head coach Ronald Koeman is also strong.
"I know what he wants from me, I know what I have to do, there is a chemistry between us and that is very important."
He added: "I try to give something extra on the pitch, something important for the team, also joy in the game, that’s why the connection with the fans is incredible. It makes me feel fantastic and I hope it continues. I’ll give everything on the pitch so that they can enjoy."
This article was originally published on 90min as Memphis Depay reveals he didn't even meet Lionel Messi before PSG move.
Source: www.90min.com