In a surprising turn of events, Lionel Messi, the Argentine professional footballer who currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), has publicly apologised to the club and his teammates for taking an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia earlier this week.
The superstar has been suspended for two weeks and will have his pay docked for the same period, according to reports in France.
In a video clip posted to his Instagram story, Messi said, “First of all, I want to apologise to my teammates and the club. Honestly, I thought we [the squad] were going to have a day off after the game like we did in previous weeks. I had this trip [to Saudi Arabia] organised which I had cancelled [once] already; I could not cancel it again. I repeat: I want to say sorry for what I did. I’m waiting to hear what the club wants to do with me.”
The PSG head coach, Christophe Galtier, has said that Messi will discuss his immediate future with the club when he returns from his suspension. “We’ll see when Leo returns what will happen,” said Galtier at a press conference on Friday. “Obviously, there will be discussions with the entire club but also with Leo, who is the primary person involved.”
Messi’s apology comes amidst reports that he will not be offered a new contract this summer, when his current deal ends.
Meanwhile, rumours have linked Messi to Inter Miami in MLS, a return to Barcelona or a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal. The French league leaders are going through a turbulent time, with some fans gathering outside Neymar’s home to demand his departure from the club.
Galtier responded to the protests, saying, “Private life must remain private. I can understand the anger, the disappointment of our fans. I can understand protesting here at our workplace after a match at Parc des Princes.” He also added that going to players’ private homes is “out of control and dangerous.” Neymar had season-ending surgery on his right ankle in March.
Messi’s apology has been well received by many fans who appreciated the sincerity of his words. However, it remains to be seen what action PSG will take in response to the incident.
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