PSG suspends Messi for unsanctioned Saudi Arabia trip

Lionel Messi has reportedly been suspended by Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for two weeks after making an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia. According to ESPN, Messi flew to Saudi Arabia following PSG’s defeat to Lorient on Sunday, April 30, and did not report to training on Monday, May 1. PSG initially considered handing Messi a fine, as the situation created tensions within the dressing room, with some players reportedly unhappy with the incident. However, PSG has now decided to suspend Messi for two weeks (two games), which may complicate any ongoing negotiations for a new contract. Popular journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the suspension will take effect immediately, but Messi is still waiting for official communication from the club. Messi’s PSG contract is set to expire after this season, with widely reported interest from MLS club Inter Miami and Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. Meanwhile, Barcelona has also explored the possibility of bringing Messi back to Camp Nou following his dramatic departure from the club in the summer of 2021.