Lionel Messi Suspended by PSG for Skipping Practice to Unauthorized Saudi Arabia Trip, Future with Club Uncertain

Author: Deborah Ross  /  2023-05-03 07:24:24

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) suspended Lionel Messi for two weeks after he traveled to Saudi Arabia without the club's permission. The reason for the trip was reportedly due to a sponsorship deal with the country. Messi had reportedly asked PSG's sporting director and manager for conditional permission to travel to Saudi Arabia, which was granted only if the team won or drew their match against Lorient. However, PSG lost the match, and Messi still went on the trip.

PSG's decision to suspend Messi comes amid rumors that the club won't be extending his contract, which expires at the end of May. As a result, Messi is expected to become a free agent, and his next destination is up for debate. While Saudi Arabia, which currently has Cristiano Ronaldo in its top league with Al-Nassr FC, could offer more cash to Messi, he may still prefer to play for a team with competitive relevance in Europe.


One option could be Barcelona, where Messi played from 2014 to 2021. However, it's unclear whether the club can afford to pay for him now, given their financial issues that led to Messi joining PSG in the first place. Another option that has been rumored is a move to the MLS, with Miami as a possible destination. Regardless of where he ends up, getting a player like Messi into the growing league would be a significant draw for the United States.

During his two-week suspension, Messi reportedly won't be paid, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his future. While PSG fans may be disappointed at the news, they can take comfort in the fact that the club has a talented squad that can still compete at the highest level.

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