Beyond Primary Identity: Messi, Mbappé, and Facundo Medina

We often define ourselves based on our primary identity, such as our profession or nationality. However, we are more than just one thing. In fact, having multiple identities can make us more interesting and adaptable. This idea was highlighted by a recent comment from Facundo Medina, the Argentinian defender of French club Lens, about Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé before their game against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Let’s take a look at how Messi and Mbappé represent different identities and how Medina’s comment added to the rivalry between Lens and PSG.

Identity beyond primary identity

Messi is known for his outstanding football skills and his representation of Argentina’s national team. However, he also plays for FC Barcelona and PSG. When he switches from one team to another, he adapts to different opponents and playing styles with ease. Similarly, I have multiple identities – as a medical student, a partner, a Texan, a Longhorn, a product manager, and a celebrity gossip enthusiast – each with its own motivations and mannerisms. Switching identities allows me to adapt to different situations and audiences.

PSG’s victory over Lens

On Saturday in Ligue 1, PSG won 3-1 against Lens at Parc des Princes. Lens were reduced to 10 men after Salis Abdul Samed was sent off for a foul on Achraf Hakimi in the 19th minute. Kylian Mbappé became PSG’s all-time Ligue 1 top goalscorer during the match. Vitinha and Lionel Messi also scored goals for PSG. Lens got a goal back from Przemyslaw Frankowski’s penalty, but it wasn’t enough. PSG’s lead at the top of Ligue 1 has extended by nine points. Lens were PSG’s unlikely title rivals, but after the match, the Ligue 1 title is surely wrapped up for PSG. Kylian Mbappé was named Player of the Match for his excellent performance and his goal that smashed another PSG record. PSG’s other players also received good ratings for their performance during the match.

Facundo Medina’s comments before Lens vs PSG game

Before the Lens vs PSG game, Facundo Medina joked that he would stop Messi and catch him if he escaped, but Mbappé would have to be taken out by ambulance. His comments added to the rivalry between Lens and PSG, who are first and second in the league. Medina wanted to play down his comments, saying they were taken out of context and apologizing for any misunderstanding.

Medina’s exceptional performances in French football could earn him a spot on Lionel Scaloni’s national team for Argentina. He made his debut against Bolivia in the South American Qualifiers for the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

Conclusion

The ability to transition from one identity to another makes individuals more interesting and unique, and it also makes them malleable and resilient, which is valuable for future physicians like me. Messi and Mbappé are more than their nationalities or being professional football players, and similarly, individuals should evaluate their own identities beyond their primary identity and appreciate the diversity of identities among people. Medina’s comment added some spice to the already heated Lens vs PSG rivalry, but let’s not forget that we can choose our identities beyond what others perceive us as.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons