Lionel Messi will play his last game for Paris St Germain against Clermont on Saturday according to coach Christophe Galtier on Thursday. Galtier called on fans to give Argentina forward a warm send-off at the Parc des Princes. Messi, who has 21 goals and 20 assists for PSG in all competitions this season, moved to the French capital from Barcelona in 2021 on a two-year contract.
The 35-year-old, who led Argentina to the World Cup title in Qatar and also boasts a record seven Ballon d’Or awards, won the Ligue 1 title in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons with PSG as well as the French Super Cup in July 2022.
“I had the privilege of coaching the best player in the history of football. This will be his last match at the Parc des Princes, and I hope that he will receive the warmest of welcomes,” Galtier told reporters on Thursday.
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After an unauthorized vacation to Saudi Arabia, while he was due to train with his club following their 3-1 league loss at home to Lorient, Messi was reportedly suspended for two weeks last month, according to French media.
“This year, he has been an important part of the team, always available. I don’t think any of the comments or criticisms are justified,” Galtier said.
“He’s always been there for the team. It’s been a great privilege to accompany him throughout the season.”
A source close to the Argentina captain told Reuters that Messi had received a formal offer to play for Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal next season, which has sparked much recent speculation over his future at PSG.
His return to his boyhood club Barcelona has also been mentioned in the media, along with Inter Miami of the Major League Soccer in the United States.
