The world champion striker from Paris Saint-Germain, Lionel Messi, moved toward Saudi Arabia, sharing his plans on social networks on April 30. He wrote about discovering new places with wonder and noted that he likes to uncover miracles for himself whenever opportunity arises. His posts highlighted a sense of curiosity about Saudi Arabia’s greenery and landscapes.
Messi’s trip aligns with his role as an ambassador for the Saudi Ministry of Tourism. The Saudi leadership has signaled possibilities for him to serve as an ambassador for a major event if the country hosts the World Cup, a role reflecting the long term strategic partnership between the football icon and the kingdom. The visit was postponed twice earlier due to Messi’s demanding schedule and PSG’s results in Ligue 1, but it ultimately took place, underscoring his high-profile connection with the region.
Amid the travel, rumors swirled about a potential move to a Saudi club such as Al-Hilal or Al-Ittihad. Some reports suggested Messi might be on a path away from Paris, especially as questions about his relationship with PSG intensified. Allegations circulated that Messi decided to depart Paris bypassing coach Christophe Galtier and football advisor Luis Campos. These details were reported by various sports outlets at the time.
PSG’s 33rd round clash with Lorient saw the club fall just short of the Ligue 1 title. A game that appeared set to be followed by a day off instead became a moment of disruption. Messi reportedly secured permission from top management to travel to Saudi Arabia, a move that did not sit well with some figures at the club. Coach Galtier reportedly expressed displeasure with the decision, and a suspension followed, with the player set to miss training for 15 days and face a pay halt during that period. This episode added to the growing tension between Messi and PSG, with several teammates expressing frustration about the club’s handling of the situation. (Source: various reports)
Argentine journalist Martin Arevalo noted that PSG did not directly inform Messi of the sanctions before the public discussion began, a point later clarified by club communications channels. Other outlets, including French media, suggested that PSG might not renew Messi’s contract, which runs through the summer of 2023. Messi has been with PSG since 2021, and speculation about a move abroad has persisted throughout his tenure, fueled by a sense of unease and a tense club atmosphere that contributed to ongoing questions about a future transfer. The possibility of a return to Barcelona has been among the frequent topics of debate, though several hurdles stand in the way, including a legal inquiry into former Barcelona management related to financial practices and other disputes. (Attribution: insider briefings)
Insiders have suggested that Barcelona would welcome Messi back, with discussions about how to structure a potential contract under La Liga rules. Veronica Brunati reported that Barcelona is working to engage La Liga leadership and to craft a mechanism around a player’s contract that could make a comeback feasible. Any deal would depend on La Liga approving an agreed plan and on the financials, with Messi reportedly willing to consider reduced earnings if necessary to facilitate a return. Barcelona’s head coach Xavi has stated that it is premature to discuss any reunion, focusing on winning the current title. (Source: club commentary and press coverage)
Analyst Dmitry Bulykin, a former Russian international, viewed a move to Saudi clubs as plausible given fewer bureaucratic barriers in the region. He also defended Messi’s decision to join PSG initially, arguing it was not a mistake and that the decision brought significant rewards, though the next step remains a major question. The discussion surrounding Messi’s future continues to unfold, with some observers noting the lack of definitive borders in Saudi Arabia regarding potential moves. (Commentary attributed to Bulykin)
Whether Messi could return to Barcelona remains a hot topic, a megatransfer that would capture global attention. Yet many factors and limits must align, and observers caution that the path to any reunion is contingent on multiple negotiations and regulatory approvals. The coming months are expected to reveal how this saga evolves, with several scenarios still on the table. (Analysis from multiple insiders)