Reports: Messi in hot water with PSG over Saudi Arabia trip
Argentina captain facing suspension after unauthorised trip
Paris Saint-Germain superstar forward Lionel Messi is said to be in trouble with the club after images of him in Saudi Arabia with his family emerged. The 35-year-old made the trip to Riyadh on Monday without seeking permission from manager Christophe Galtier or Luis Campos.
Messi travelled to the Middle Eastern country after taking part in PSG’s 3-1 defeat at the hands of FC Lorient in Ligue 1. The French champions have struggled for consistency, particularly in the second half of the season. According to reports, the players were meant to have two days off had they won against Lorient, but the defeat meant they were to report to training on Monday. Messi missed the session on Monday as a result of his trip to Saudi Arabia, where he serves as a tourism ambassador. He made the trip with his wife and two of his sons, Mateo and Ciro.
Lionel Messi and wife, Antonella, pose for a picture in Saudi ArabiaReports out of France suggest that the club is considering punitive action against the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, with a fine being considered. Messi joined the club on a two-year deal in 2021 after leaving boyhood club FC Barcelona. His contract is up in the summer and he is still yet to agree to an extension with the club, with a return to the Catalan club being mooted. With lifelong rival Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Al Nassr, Odion Ighalo’s Al-Hilal made an offer of €400 million per year to Messi, who turned down the offer as he prefers to remain in Europe until at least the Copa America in 2024.
It remains to be seen whether Messi will sign a new contract at the Parc Des Princes or choose to move away from the club. He was warmly received at the club upon his arrival but has seen that warmth evaporate in recent months, with the fans even openly whistling when his name was announced for a recent match.
If Messi opts against renewing in Paris, he will not be short of suitors, but he first has to resolve the issue on ground with the club. Latest reports state that the Argentina captain may face a two-week suspension from the club after his action. The club is still waiting to hear from his entourage.
