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The ongoing feud between Lionel Messi and Paris Saint-Germain Football Club (PSG) may be on the brink of resolution, following a surprising turn of events. The Argentine midfielder, who recently traveled to Saudi Arabia, has issued a public apology to his club and teammates, amidst rumors of his departure from PSG.
A Surprise Trip to Saudi Arabia
Lionel Messi, who is considered one of the best players in the world, recently traveled to Saudi Arabia, following PSG's 3-1 defeat at home against Lorient. Despite being expected back at the club on Monday, Messi failed to seek permission from the club's management, including manager Christophe Galtier and director Luis Campos, for his trip.
The Saudi Tourism Minister, Ahmed Al Khateeb, took to Twitter to welcome Messi and his family to Saudi Arabia, stating: "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".
A Message of Apology
In response to Messi's unannounced trip, PSG suspended the star player for two weeks, without training or matches.
Despite widespread speculation that this suspension signaled the end of Messi's time at PSG, the midfielder took to Instagram to apologize to his teammates and the club. In a video message, Messi stated: "Hello, I wanted to make this video following what has happened.
I wanted to apologize to my teammates and the club. I thought we were going to have a day off after the game like had always been the case. I had organized the trip to Saudi Arabia and I couldn't cancel it. I'd like to apologize to my teammates and I'm awaiting what the club sees fit".
Leo Messi statement 🚨🇦🇷 #Messi
“I thought we were going to have a day off after the game as always. I had this trip organized and I couldn't cancel it. I had already canceled it before…”.
“I apologize to my teammates and I'm waiting for what the club wants to do with me”.pic.twitter.com/GBuarEgwSl — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 5, 2023
The Future of Lionel Messi
As it stands, Messi's contract with PSG is valid until the end of this season. Nevertheless, rumors of his departure from the club have been circulating for months, with Barcelona reportedly preparing for his return.
President Joan Laporta has put together a team of sponsors to finance Messi's return to Barcelona, and the offer has been submitted for verification to the leaders of La Liga. However, the deal could be thwarted by Saudi Al Hilal, who submitted an offer to Messi amounting to an unprecedented 400 million euros per season.
If Messi were to accept the offer, he would become the highest-paid player in the history of sports, reigniting a long-standing rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al Nassr.