Updated: 03 May 2023
Lionel Messi Suspended By Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) For Unapproved Trip To Saudi Arabia. French publication L’Equipe reports that Paris Saint-Germain has suspended Lionel Messi for two weeks without pay because he took an unauthorized absence from training to visit Saudi Arabia. It is worth noting that PSG’s two-year contract with the six-time Ballon D’or winner will expire in the summer.
About The Incident
On Monday, May 1st, Lionel Messi was spotted in Riyadh. According to a report by the French outlet L’Equipe, PSG has penalized him with a two-week wage deduction and has prohibited him from attending training during that period. This implies that he won’t be playing in PSG’s upcoming Ligue 1 games against Troyes and Ajaccio, but he could be eligible for the match against Auxerre on May 21.
Messi is currently in the final months of his two-year contract with Ligue 1 leaders, PSG. Meanwhile, the Tourism Minister of Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, took to Twitter to welcome Messi and shared photos of the Argentine World Cup winner. This happened hours after Messi had played the entire 90-minute match of PSG’s 3-1 home loss to Lorient, which has reduced their lead at the top of Ligue 1 to only five points with five games left.
Also Read: Legends Of The Game: The Top 5 Greatest Footballers Of All Time
Comment Of The Saudi Arabian Tourism Minister
Al-Khateeb expressed his happiness in a tweet. It stated that he welcomes Messi and his family to Saudi Arabia to enjoy magical tourist destinations and authentic experiences. He added that Saudi Arabia welcomes visitors from all around the world to experience its hospitality and have a unique trip.
Barcelona Intensifies Efforts To Bring Back Lionel Messi
Barcelona is actively trying to bring Lionel Messi back to the Nou Camp for what is likely to be his final year in European football. They are in talks with LaLiga to increase their Financial Fair Play ratio to facilitate Messi’s return. The authorities have charged the club, including Andreas Christensen, with violating the limit with three players, but the club remains determined to make room for Messi by moving players. The lack of progress in Messi’s contract talks with Paris Saint-Germain has boosted Barca’s hopes.
