World superstar Lionel Messi has been left "bemused" over French media's verdict on his time with Paris Saint-Germain.
The 34-year-old is football royalty but has yet to be crowned in Paris amid a tough debut season that has only produced seven goals in 23 appearances.
Le Parisien state Messi has become increasingly disillusioned over complaints about his displays, and it reached a crescendo during his off night against Real Madrid.
The Barcelona icon missed a spot kick but it was doubts over his ability to effect the game in open play that was the leading narrative post-match.
And Messi has now reportedly confided in his team-mates over failing to convince the natives he remains the best player in world football.
PSG are cruising to the title and look a good bet to see off Madrid, however, their chastening defeat to Manchester City where Messi and Neymar struggled still looms large.
The mercurial forward has a more disciplined role under compatriot Maurcio Pochettino and that has led to a surprise record of two league goals in 16 games.
Messi still has his backers and best friend Sergio Aguero recently launched an impassioned defence over a player many regard as the greatest footballer of all time.
