Verratti reveals dinner that sparked Messi's PSG move from Barcelona
Former Pescara star Verratti spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport, revealing that he'd love to play in Serie A with his boyhood club.
The 32-year-old, a serial Ligue 1 title winner with PSG, also spoke about his time in the French capital, revealing that a dinner in Ibiza with some of his ex-teammates somehow led to Leo Messi's transfer from Barcelona.
Verratti opens up about Messi's move to PSG
ENSCHEDE, NETHERLANDS – JUNE 15: Marco Verratti of Italy arrives before the UEFA Nations League 2022/23 semifinal match between Spain and Italy at FC Twente Stadium on June 15, 2023 in Enschede, Netherlands. (Photo by)
'I remember a fantastic evening that turned almost magical. I was in Ibiza and Neymar came to me to say that we'd have dinner with Leo Messi,' Verratti said.
'It was me, Leo, Paredes, Ney and Di Maria at the table. We talked and had a good time. Jokingly, we started pushing him [Messi] to come to Paris. The next day, we read that there were problems between him and Barcelona, and later in the afternoon, Neymar called me to say: 'Leo is coming [to PSG]. It was incredible to have him for dinner and then become teammates.'
Messi is currently under contract with MLS side Inter Miami.
The Argentine superstar joined PSG in 2021 and spent two years in Paris before his move to the USA.
During his interview, Verratti shared his view on the upcoming Serie A campaign, insisting that Inter remain the favourites for the Scudetto.
Verratti's view on 2025-26 Serie A season
NAPLES, ITALY – MAY 26: SSC Napoli players and Antonio Conte show the Scudetto trophy during the parade on the seafront on May 26, 2025 in Naples, Italy. SSC Napoli players on the open-top bus in parade along the Naples seafront celebrate the Scudetto victory. (Photo by)
'I'm really intrigued by Gasperini at Roma. Gasp has built something extraordinary with Atalanta,' he said.
'I hope Allegri does well at Milan, which is hugely followed here. As I coach, I have a soft spot for Sarri. He has his own style, and some of his principles remind me of Zeman. The idea of controlling the game, and most importantly, his ability to develop players.
'Last year, they really pulled off a miracle. Only somebody like Conte could have done it. For me, however, Inter remain the favourite based on the players they have. If they sign Lookman, they'll remain the strongest.'
Verratti, a Euro 2020 winner with the Italy national team, has collected 55 appearances with the Azzurri, scoring three goals.
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