LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – PSG head coach, Christophe Galtier, says he did not approve of Lionel Messi’s trip to Saudi Arabia, which came just hours after PSG’s shocking loss to Lorient.
Despite Paris Saint-Germain’s historic 3-1 home defeat, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner played the entire 90 minutes for them.
According to L’Equipe, PSG manager Galtier and football consultant Luis Campos opposed the trip to the Middle East, but Messi went above their heads and secured approval from the club’s Qatari board.
As a result, he was able to finish a tour that was part of his duties as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador for the country’s quest to host the 2030 World Cup.
Messi shared a photo of his break outside of France on social media and has been linked to a move to the Middle East, which would bring him back together with his bitter rival Cristiano Ronaldo. “Who thought Saudi has so much green? I love to explore its unexpected wonders whenever I can.”
The Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, responded by saying: “I am happy to welcome Saudi Tourism Ambassador Lionel Messi and his family on his second vacation in Saudi. We are happy to share our authentic Saudi welcome with you all #WelcomeMessi.ā
As his PSG contract nears the end of its term, Messi continues to be the subject of strong rumors away from the club.
The 35-year-old World Cup champion is rumored to be considering a move back to Barcelona, to MLS, or to Saudi Arabia to team up with Al-Nassr superstar Ronaldo.