Lionel Messi quits PSG amid new club talks

Lionel Messi will wave goodbye to Paris Saint-Germain this weekend  (AFP via Getty Images)
Lionel Messi will wave goodbye to Paris Saint-Germain this weekend (AFP via Getty Images)

Lionel Messi will leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer after two seasons at the club.

The manager Christophe Galtier confirmed the news ahead of PSG’s final game of the season this weekend.

“I had a privilege of coaching the best player in the history of football,” Galtier said. “It will be Leo’s last match at the Parc des Princes against Clermont.”

Messi, 35, has been linked with a return to Barcelona, and manager Xavi revealed this week that talks have taken place.

“I told the president that Messi return makes sense,” Xavi said. “No doubts at all, he is perfect for our system and idea. I’ve the tactical plan in mind with Leo. It’s up to Leo. I think he has to decide, it’s up to him… I’m speaking with Leo, yes.”

While a reunion with his former club would be the romantic choice, there are also lucrative offers on the table from the US, where the David Beckham-owned Inter Miami are exploring a deal, and Saudi Arabia. Al-Hilal are prepared to pay the Argentinian £1bn over a two-year period in order to compete against his former rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr.

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