Lionel Messi is bidding farewell to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after two seasons which have left a way of unfinished enterprise. The Argentine celebrity joined PSG with the hopes of main the membership to Champions League glory, however they fell brief within the final 16 stage in each seasons.
PSG coach Christophe Galtier has confirmed that Messi’s time on the membership will come to an finish after the league finale towards Clermont on June 3. Galtier, acknowledging the privilege of teaching the soccer legend, expressed his hope that Messi would obtain a heat farewell from the followers, AP reported.
Regardless of the crew’s European disappointments, Messi’s particular person contributions have been notable. In accordance with league statistics, he has scored 32 objectives in 74 video games for PSG, together with 16 assists, making him the highest supplier within the league this season. Nevertheless, the 35-year-old has lately confronted criticism from PSG ultras, who’ve whistled and booed him throughout matches.
Messi’s departure marks a major shift in his relationship with the membership and its followers. When he arrived in Paris two years in the past, he was welcomed with chants of “Messi! Messi! Messi!” and proudly wore a T-shirt with the slogan “Ici C’est Paris” (This Is Paris) – a favorite cry amongst PSG supporters. Nevertheless, the adoration has waned in current weeks, with jeers changing cheers throughout matches on the Parc des Princes.
Regardless of profitable their eleventh French league title, PSG’s major goal of securing Champions League success stays unfulfilled. Messi’s time in France has been bittersweet, as he initially struggled to adapt to the French league however regularly discovered his rhythm alongside teammate Kylian Mbappe.
What lies forward for Lionel Messi?
The 35-year-old footballer’s future past PSG stays unsure, with hypothesis of a possible return to Barcelona or a transfer to the US to play in Main League Soccer (MLS). Nevertheless, for now, all eyes will probably be on Messi as he bids farewell to PSG and prepares to embark on the subsequent chapter of his illustrious profession.
Messi is reportedly being courted by Saudi Arabian membership Al-Hilal with a profitable provide, paving the way in which for a possible showdown along with his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who at present performs for Al-Nassr within the Saudi Professional League. Speculations have been fueled by claims made by French outlet Foot Mercato, stating that Messi’s father and agent, Jorge Messi, has accepted an unprecedented provide from Al-Hilal.
Whereas the prospect of a transfer to Saudi Arabia looms massive, Messi additionally has the choice of returning to his former membership, FC Barcelona, the place he loved a exceptional 18-year profession earlier than becoming a member of PSG in 2021. Barcelona has been desperate to deliver their prodigal son again to the Camp Nou and has submitted an inside financial report back to La Liga, highlighting the monetary viability of Messi’s return. Nevertheless, the membership is but to obtain a response from the league, leaving Messi’s final vacation spot unsure.
Including one other layer of intrigue to the state of affairs, Argentine outlet Ole has revealed that a number of unnamed English Premier League (EPL) golf equipment have emerged as potential suitors for the soccer icon. The attract of English soccer’s prime tier has attracted quite a few superstars in recent times, and Messi’s potential arrival would undoubtedly be a seismic occasion for the league.
(With AP inputs)
Up to date: 03 Jun 2023, 07:24 AM IST