Paris — Paris St Germain (PSG) manager Christophe Galtier has officially confirmed the departure of seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi at the end of the current season. The 35-year-old Argentine star’s final appearance for the club will take place in PSG’s last Ligue 1 match against Clermont on Saturday.
Messi’s exit from PSG, where he has spent the past two years, had been widely anticipated. Galtier announced the news during a press conference on Thursday, expressing the privilege he felt in coaching the player he regards as the best footballer in history. Galtier hopes that Messi will receive a fitting farewell at the Parc des Princes on Saturday.
Lionel Messi signed with PSG in 2021 after leaving FC Barcelona due to the Catalan club’s financial crisis. During his tenure in Paris, Messi played a pivotal role in securing two Ligue 1 titles for the team. However, despite posting impressive statistics this season, his relationship with the club appeared to have deteriorated. Last month, Messi faced a two-week suspension for an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia.
Speculation surrounding Messi’s future has linked him to a potential move to the Middle East, the United States, or even a return to FC Barcelona. Galtier praised Messi’s on-field contributions, stating, “He has always been available, always present in the training sessions.” Galtier also defended Messi against unwarranted criticism, drawing attention to his 21 goals and 22 assists this season, which do not include his performance in the World Cup.
