5 PSG stars who can outshine Lionel Messi this season (2021-22)

A number of clubs were left green with envy when Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) announced the signing of Lionel Messi earlier this summer. Following the Argentine's shock exit from Barcelona, the Parisians wasted no time in sweeping up the six-time Ballon d'Or winner. With Neymar and Kylian Mbappe already in their ranks, PSG's attack looks absolutely ravishing after the inclusion of Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi and PSG's 2021-22 season so far

At the time of writing, PSG sit in top spot in Ligue 1, having won all six of their games so far. The French giants have scored 18 goals in the league, conceding just six in the process. They recently triumphed over rivals Olympique Lyon, thanks to an injury-time winner by Mauro Icardi.

Kylian Mbappe is the side's current top-scorer, with four strikes to his name. Surprisingly, Lionel Messi is yet to open his account for PSG, despite having appeared in three competitive games. In sharp contrast to his fans' expectations, Lionel Messi is taking his sweet time to settle into life in Paris.

While Cristiano Ronaldo's return to Manchester United has already borne four goals, his counterpart hasn't been able to produce any moment of magic recently. With his miniature goal drought on our minds, let's take a look at five PSG players who can outshine Lionel Messi in the ongoing season:

---

#5 Marco Verratti

Verratti going up against Messi in the past

One of the most complete midfielders on the planet right now, Marco Verratti, has been extremely crucial to PSG's rise to prominence. Entering his 10th season with the club, Verratti has been an ever-present member of a rampant PSG side for quite some time now.

The 28-year-old central midfielder was especially exceptional during Italy's fabled win at the Euros this year, playing five games and providing two assists. Technically gifted with commendable close control of the ball, Verratti is the anchorman at the heart of PSG's midfield.

Ander Herrera has hogged the entirety of the limelight with six-goal contributions for PSG so far. However, Verratti's ability to dictate the tempo could become more critical for the Parisians in the long run. If Lionel Messi continues to struggle in front of goal, Verratti can easily outshine the Argentine once he regains his fitness.

---

#4 Neymar

Messi and Neymar have reunited after four years

The driving factor behind Lionel Messi's switch to the Parc des Princes, Neymar has been a close acquaintance of the Argentine for years now. The two mates have raged in constant footballing battles against each other ever since the enigmatic Brazilian moved to PSG in a record-breaking move.

On most occasions, Lionel Messi has come on top with his Argentina side recently beating the Seleção to secure a historic Copa America win. However, Ligue 1 has been Neymar's turf for four years now and the flashy playmaker boasts some insane numbers for PSG.

In just 120 games across all competitions, Neymar has racked up a colossal 88 goals and 52 assists, making him PSG's main man upfront. With 28 goal contributions last term, the Brazilian was one of the top creators for his side, despite struggling with injuries all season.

While Lionel Messi has the capability to flip the switch and go berserk at any given moment, his recent struggles could give Neymar time to surpass his mate.

---

#3 Marquinhos

Marquinhos' defensive skills can outshine Lionel Messi's attacking output

From this season onwards, Marquinhos will have to bear the responsibility of captaining the likes of Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos at PSG. The 27-year-old defensive maestro has simply been sensational for the French giants, putting up some brilliant performances on a consistent basis.

Equally adept at playing as a defensive midfielder, Marquinhos is easily one of the best centre-backs in the world. The Brazilian stalwart exudes a commanding presence on the pitch, a necessary trait for any adequate leader. With his contributions, PSG have reigned supreme on the domestic front and are now gearing up to dominate the continental stage.

With 327 appearances for PSG under his belt, Marquinhos has been instrumental for the club. Regardless of the offensive output that Lionel Messi brings to his new side, the Brazilian can comfortably have much more impact for PSG this season.

---

#2 Achraf Hakimi

Hakimi has had a lightning start to the new season

While all the other entries have been with PSG for over four years now, Achraf Hakimi is the only newcomer on the list. Unlike the rest of the inclusions, Hakimi is yet to prove his worth at the Parc des Princes. Nevertheless, he is already showing signs of being an absolute superstar for PSG.

The nine-time Ligue 1 champions have been craving for a half-decent full-back ever since Dani Alves vacated the spot in 2019. Since then, PSG have had a hoard of makeshift right-backs on their books, producing average output.

However, in Hakimi, the Parisians have one of the most promising outfield players on their hands. His searing pace, coupled with his ability to provide pinpoint crosses, can be lethal for PSG's attacking prospects. Bought for a sizeable fee of €60 million, Hakimi already has three goals and two assists for his new side.

Lionel Messi will have to pick up his slack soon in order to avoid being overshadowed by the talented Moroccan.

---

#1 Kylian Mbappe

Mbappe is the favorite to dethrone Lionel Messi

Possibly the most obvious inclusion on this list, Kylian Mbappe, has been knocking on the door of greatness for a long time now. At 22, Mbappe is already one of the best players in the world. Touted to surpass Lionel Messi in the coming future, the Frenchman has a golden opportunity to establish his supremacy this season itself.

Due to his astounding skills as a professional footballer, Real Madrid have been courting Mbappe for a long time. While the prolific youngster came very close to joining Los Blancos this summer, he remains at PSG for the 2021-22 season at least.

At €160 million, Mbappe is the most valuable player in the sport at the moment. Capable of playing anywhere on the frontline, the 49-time capped France international has already racked up a mind-boggling 136 goals and 65 assists in just 178 appearances for PSG.

He famously gave Lionel Messi a run for his money in the 2018-19 European Golden Boot race and has the chance to trump the Argentine at PSG this season.

---