Ligue 1 side Paris Saint-Germain has suspended Lionel Messi for two weeks after the soccer star’s unauthorized trip away from the team to Saudi Arabia with his family. The trip was reportedly part of a promotional commercial agreement. According to reports, the 35-year-old is set to miss PSG’s training and games during the period of his suspension.
Reports claim that the World Cup winner requested this trip and commercial work but was refused. It is learnt that Messi has a role as a tourism ambassador for Saudi Arabia. The suspension is driven by a new policy at PSG by president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, whereas no one is bigger than the club – and the same rules will apply to everyone, even their biggest star like Messi. More stories at 12betinfo!
Multiple posts, including one of Saudi Arabia’s officials, confirmed Messi’s trip in the country. “I am happy to welcome #Messi and his family to Saudi to enjoy the magical tourist destinations and authentic experiences,” Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism tweeted along with Messi’s photos with his family. “We welcome visitors from all around the world to experience a unique trip to Saudi Arabia and its hospitality.”
Earlier, Messi posted a promotion for Saudi tourism: “Who thought Saudi has so much green? I love to explore its unexpected wonders whenever I can. #visitsaudi.” PSG is owned by a Qatar-based firm, and there is a geopolitical conflict between Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The suspension also came amid rumors of Messi’s departure at the Parisian club.
His contract with PSG will expire by June and the seven-time Ballon D’or winner remains uncertain about his future in France. According to reports, Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal eyes to sign Messi for a whooping £400m for just one season in order to bring him and Cristiano Ronaldo in the same team. There are also rumors of Messi returning to Barcelona, where he spent most of his career.
Messi arrived from Barcelona in 2021 but has struggled to bring his best form to France. He has scored 31 goals and contributed 34 assists in 71 games in all competitions for PSG, and won the Ligue 1 title last season. He scored 20 goals in all competitions this season and is the leading assist provider in Ligue 1 with 15. PSG is five-point ahead of Marseille with just five games remaining in the season.
