02 May 2023 , 11:33
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Lionel Messi’s teammates at Paris Saint-Germain were left ‘shocked’ after he took an unapproved trip to Saudi Arabia following Sunday’s Ligue 1 defeat to Lorient.
The Argentine superstar is contractually obliged visit to the Gulf State as part of his role as tourism ambassador to the nation. PSG normally have two days off after a Sunday match so Messi travelled to Saudi Arabia without requesting permission, but due to the side’s defeat – they were called into training on Monday.
That left many teammates bemused as to why the 35-year-old was not among them when they arrived at training. It comes with the star being e xpected to leave PSG when his contract expires at the end of the current season, as reported by . The club are no longer prioritising his contract renewal.
As reported by L’Équipe, Messi’s trip to Saudi Arabia was not authorised by the club. He did not make the request to either boss Christophe Galtier or director Luis Campos. It is an incident which may portray the club as dysfunctional and in less than a favourable light, with the standards applied to Messi not equalling those which his teammates observe.
Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb tweeted on Monday, alongside several pictures of Messi’s trip: “I am happy to welcome #Messi and his family to Saudi to enjoy the magical tourist destinations and authentic experiences. We welcome visitors from all around the world to experience a unique trip to Saudi Arabia and its hospitality. #WelcomeMessi”
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On Sunday, Messi posted a message on his Instagram account (shared by the official tourism board page), appearing to announce his impending trip. "Who thought Saudi Arabia had so much greenery? I like to explore its unexpected wonders whenever I can."
PSG and Messi have halted talks to renew his contract (Getty Images)Have Your Say! What do you make of Messi’s trip to Saudi Arabia? Tell us what you think here.
As outlined by RMC Sport, the latest episode threatens to risk Messi’s relationship with the club and his PSG teammates. There was no shortage of dismay by his trip. Messi joined the French club as a free agent on a two-year contract in the summer of 2021 and while he is on course to helping them to successive Ligue 1 crowns, Champions League glory has remained elusive.
With just two months remaining on the Argentine superstar’s contract, PSG are in no rush to extend the arrangement. The development comes as club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi aims to make PSG a more financial sustainable project, with fewer star names and a greater emphasis on young French talents.
Barcelona are hopeful of signing Messi this summer, with the Catalan club’s transfer chiefs confirming contact had been made with the player’s camp regarding a potential return to the Camp Nou. Messi and his camp are aware of this interest, but no official approach has yet been made with any move depending on the club’s precarious financial situation.