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Seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will leave Paris St Germain at the end of the season, manager Christophe Galtier
NEW DELHI: Lionel Messi, the acclaimed footballer and seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, will bid farewell to Paris St Germain (PSG) at the end of the season, as confirmed by manager Christophe Galtier.
The highly regarded athlete will make his final appearance for the club during their last Ligue 1 match against Clermont on Saturday.
Galtier officially announced Messi’s imminent departure during a press conference on Thursday, confirming widespread speculation. In remarks published on PSG’s official website, psg.fr, Galtier expressed his gratitude for having had the privilege of coaching “the best football player ever,” Lionel Messi, and expressed his hopes for a warm reception for Messi’s last game at the Parc des Princes.
“I will take away that I have had the privilege of coaching the best football player ever, Leo Messi,” Galtier said. “Saturday will be his last game at the Parc des Princes. I hope he will be welcomed in the best way possible.”
Messi’s departure from PSG, after spending two years with the club, has been long anticipated and is now officially confirmed.
The Argentine World Cup winner joined PSG in 2021, leaving Barcelona amid the Catalan club’s financial crisis. During his tenure at PSG, Messi played a pivotal role in securing two Ligue 1 titles for the Parisians. However, despite impressive individual statistics this season, reports have suggested a strained relationship between Messi and the club.
Last month, Messi faced a two-week suspension for undertaking an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia. Since then, speculation has arisen regarding his future destination, with potential moves to the Middle East, the United States, or even a return to Barcelona being discussed.
Galtier was keen to acknowledge Messi’s significant contributions on the field. He emphasised Messi’s consistent availability and dedication during training sessions, highlighting his role as both a provider of assists and a prolific goal scorer.
Galtier defended Messi against what he deemed unjustified remarks or criticisms, stating that the footballer had always served the team’s best interests.
Despite Messi’s age of 35 and the disruption caused by the World Cup, his individual performance remains exceptional. Galtier mentioned that Messi has scored 21 goals and provided 22 assists in matches outside of the World Cup, resulting in a remarkable contribution of 43 goals this season.
As Messi prepares to bid adieu to PSG, football enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate news of his next destination. His departure from the French club marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career, and fans will closely follow his future endeavours on the football pitch.
The impact of Messi’s departure will undoubtedly be felt by PSG, while supporters and football lovers alike anticipate the exciting chapter that lies ahead for one of the game’s greatest players.
