Messi suspended by PSG over unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia

Lionel Messi has reportedly been suspended by PSG for two weeks after making an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia.

PSG boss Christophe Galtier had reportedly told PSG players that they would be given Monday and Tuesday off from training if they defeat Lorient. They were however defeated 3-1 by Lorient on Sunday, April 30, and the players were called in for training on Monday, May 1.

ESPN reported that Messi flew to Saudi Arabia following the defeat and did not report to training on Monday. PSG initially considered handing the 35-year-old a fine, as “the situation created tensions within the dressing room, with some players unhappy with the incident.”

Popular journalist, Fabrizio Romano reported that PSG has decided to suspend Lionel Messi for two weeks (two games), perhaps complicating any ongoing negotiations for a new contract.

He tweeted;

“Paris Saint-Germain have decided to suspend Lionel Messi with immediate effect for two weeks, sources confirm. The suspension will take place now after Messi’s trip to Saudi NOT authorized by the club as per @RMCSport. Messi side, still waiting on official communication.”

🚨 Paris Saint-Germain have decided to suspend Lionel Messi with immediate effect for two weeks, sources confirm.

The suspension will take place now after Messi’s trip to Saudi NOT authorized by the club as per @RMCSport.

Messi side, still waiting on official communication. pic.twitter.com/j223WK2r5Z

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 2, 2023

Messi’s PSG contract is set to expire after this season, with widely reported interest from MLS (Inter Miami) and Saudi Arabia (Al Hilal).

Barcelona has also explored the possibility of bringing Messi back to Camp Nou following his dramatic departure in the summer of 2021.