Lionel Messi to leave PSG with star ‘likely’ to renew Cristiano Ronaldo rivalry with transfer to top Saudi side
LIONEL MESSI is set to leave PSG at the end of the season, according to reports.
The Argentine superstar was suspended for two weeks by the French club yesterday after travelling to Saudi Arabia without their permission.
It appeared to be the final straw with Messi now set to walk when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague reports for the BBC that “neither club nor player” want to renew the deal.
He is being linked with a big money move to Saudi Arabia where he could face old foe Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Mail report that Saudi club Al-Hilal is the “likely” destination for the 35-year-old.
He could opt for a move to the States where there is reported interest from Inter Miami in the MLS.
Messi has enjoyed a good season for PSG and has registered 15 goals and 15 assists in Ligue 1.
But the club’s form in 2023 has been shaky, particularly since their latest underwhelming Champions League exit in March.
Messi has found himself whistled and jeered by PSG fans during recent games and had been reluctant to sign another deal at the club.
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Balague reports that the star’s father, Jorge, told PSG’s football advisor Luis Campos of his son’s plans to move on a few weeks ago.
Messi has been strongly linked with a return to Barcelona, the club he is most heavily associated with and spent 17 years of his career.
He left in tears in 2021 as the Catalan club’s financial situation squeezed him out the door.
Paris Saint-Germain sensationally swooped for the star and teamed him up with fellow superstars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar.
And while the trio have produced some outrageous moments on the pitch together, the Champions League continues to elude the Parisian giants.
They still have a fight on their hands to win their own domestic league this season after defeat to Lorient left them only five ahead of Marseille.
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