Lionel Messi's relationship with Paris Saint-Germain FC (PSG) has taken a hit after the club suspended the Argentine captain for two weeks. The suspension comes in response to Messi's unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia earlier this week.
Messi played the full 90 minutes in PSG's Ligue 1 match against Lorient on Sunday, which they lost 3-1. He then traveled to the Middle East and missed Monday's training session. Although the team had Tuesday off, they are set to resume training on Wednesday.
The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner is now banned from training or playing with the club for two weeks and will not be paid during this time. Additionally, PSG has fined Messi an undisclosed amount.
According to the BBC, Messi had requested permission for the trip, but the club denied his request due to the importance of the remaining domestic season. Currently, PSG sits five points ahead of Marseille in the Ligue 1 table.
Messi's trip to Saudi Arabia was not just for leisure; he went there to fulfill his duties as a tourism ambassador. He confirmed this role by posting a photo on his official Instagram account in collaboration with Visit Saudi, the country's tourism organization.
As a result of the suspension, Messi will miss Ligue 1 matches against Troyes and Ajaccio. When he returns, there will be three games left in the season. PSG leads the table by five points but has not secured European success.
Messi's future at PSG remains uncertain, with his contract set to expire in June. Fans have shown little enthusiasm for his renewal, and his unauthorized trip has fueled rumors of a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal. They are reportedly interested in rekindling the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry, as Cristiano Ronaldo currently plays for Al Nassr.
FC Barcelona remains a possibility, with club executives expressing interest in bringing their former captain back to the Camp Nou. While they cannot afford Messi's salary, they are reportedly considering signing him at minimum wage with additional marketing and merchandise incentives, as well as a share of gate revenue.
With less than two months until the speculation ends, it is becoming increasingly clear that PSG is unlikely to make significant efforts to secure Messi's renewal. Furthermore, it is uncharacteristic for Messi to knowingly defy his club's wishes.
So far, Messi's time at PSG has been largely disappointing, with his most notable performances in recent years coming from his national team appearances.
