Paris Saint-Germain has suspended Lionel Messi for two weeks, effective immediately, for the striker’s trip to Saudi Arabia without the club’s approval. The news was spread by RMC Sport, which reports that the French champion considered this trip of the Argentine player as serious behavior and that he immediately began a disciplinary process, culminating in this decision.
Less than 24 hours after Paris Saint-Germain’s surprise 1-3 home defeat to Lorient, Messi missed team training because he traveled to Asian territory. “Who would say that there is so much greenery in Saudi Arabia? I love to explore its wonders whenever I can,” wrote the Argentine international, who traveled as the country’s tourism ambassador, on social media.
What is certain is that as soon as he landed on Saudi soil, rumors spread about a possible move to Al-Hilal. It should be remembered that the emblem of Saudi Arabia was persistently associated with Messi, whose contract with the Paris team ends in June. The return to Barcelona seems like a mirage at the moment. “He will not return. They created this smokescreen to cover up the club’s problems,” said Jaume Llopis, former manager of the Catalans.