Lionel Messi Apologizes to PSG and Teammates After Suspension for Saudi Arabia Visit

Messi, the best player in the world seven times, said in a brief video broadcast in Spanish, “I honestly thought that we would have a rest day after the match, as has been the norm in recent weeks.”

And the world champion, who is linked to a contract with the Tourism Authority in Saudi Arabia, continued, as he regularly promotes it on his social networks, “I organized travel and was unable to cancel it after I canceled it previously. I apologize to my colleagues and wait for what the club will decide. I ask forgiveness from my colleagues and the club.”

Saint-Germain had suspended the 2022 World Cup champion this week after he missed training to make a promotional visit to Saudi Arabia.

Messi is not expected to extend his contract with the Parisian club, and there are only five matches left this season.

Galtier was asked in a press conference if he would be able to count on the seven-time Ballon d’Or star after his return from suspension, and he replied, “We will see what happens when Leo returns, obviously there will be discussions with the whole club but also with Leo, who is the main person.” the meaning”.

The club did not confirm the length of the Argentine star’s suspension, but French media reported that it would take two weeks, which means that he would miss at least two matches.

Saint-Germain leads the French League standings, five points behind second-placed Marseille.

Galtier said the club had told him to stop Messi, but he refused to say whether he supported the decision.

Galtier said, “I did not have to make the decision, I was informed of the decision.”

This disciplinary measure comes at a crucial moment for Messi’s future in Paris Saint-Germain, as he is at the end of his contract with the French capital club.

The 35-year-old star scored 15 goals this season in the league, which is his second season with Paris Saint-Germain, after a rich career with Barcelona.

In Argentina, local newspapers described the decision as unfair, so Olé wrote: “Very cruel (…) because he is the best in the world, his behavior was exemplary throughout his career.”

In France, coach Antoine Kombouare criticized this behavior, saying that “we do not touch Messi, whatever he does.”
Groups of club fans expressed their dissatisfaction with the results, players and management on Wednesday, in front of Saint-Germain’s headquarters and the home of the currently injured Brazilian striker Neymar.