Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) manager, Christophe Galtier, says Argentine superstar, Lionel Messi, will leave the club at the end of the season.
Messi, who moved to PSG in 2021 after leaving Barcelona, has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia while talk of a return to the Nou Camp has picked up in Spain in recent weeks.
Galtier has now clarified the six-time Ballon d’Or winner’s future lies away from the Parc des Princes ahead of PSG’s last outing of the campaign against Clermont Foot on Saturday, June 3.
He said: “I had the privilege of coaching the best player in the history of football.
“This will be his last match at the Parc des Princes, and I hope that he will receive the warmest of welcomes.”
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Messi has 21 goals and 20 assists for PSG in all competitions this season, but his relationship with the team’s fans has soured with the Argentina captain subjected to whistles as the French side fell short in their pursuit of Champions League glory once again.
There was an option for Messi to extend his initial two-year deal at PSG – worth £25 million per year after tax, plus bonuses – by a further 12 months, however, he has decided against staying on.
Galtier added: “This year, he has been an important part of the team, always available. I don’t think any of the comments or criticisms are justified.
“He’s always been there for the team. It’s been a great privilege to accompany him throughout the season.”
Barcelona head coach, Xavi Hernandez, has called on the club hierarchy to bring Messi back to the Nou Camp this summer but says the move depends on the Argentina forward.
Messi, who scored 672 goals in 778 appearances for Barca between 2003 and 2021, has spent the last two seasons at PSG after Barcelona let him move for free due to being unable to renew his contract.
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