Mauricio Pochettino says there are “no issues” with Lionel Messi after the Paris Saint-Germain superstar’s reaction to being substituted during Sunday’s 2-1 win over Ligue 1 rivals, Lyon.

Messi had a puzzled look on his face as he walked past PSG coach Pochettino after being replaced by full-back Achraf Hakimi in the 76th minute of the game.

Pochettino and Messi briefly exchanged words as the latter was substituted.

“I think everyone knows that we have many great players, with a 35-man squad. We have to make choices within the matchday squad and then during the game, keeping in mind what’s best for the team and every player,” Pochettino told a media conference. “Sometimes the decisions are positive, or not. But that’s what managers are there to do on the sidelines, to make decisions. It can please people or not. I asked him how he was, and he said he was fine, no issues.”

PSG secured victory over Lyon following a dramatic injury-time header from substitute Mauro Icardi from Mbappe’s cross after Neymar’s penalty had earlier cancelled out Lucas Paqueta’s opening goal.

Pochettino’s PSG are now five points clear of Marseille at the top of Ligue 1 after six wins from six games.

PSG have achieved a flawless start from their first six games for the third time after 2017-18 and 2018-19 – on both those occasions, they went on to be crowned champions.

“It’s very positive for us,” Pochettino said of their start to the Ligue 1 campaign.

(dpa/NAN)