Lionel Messi To Leave PSG At End Of Season, Confirms Manager Christophe Galtier

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Lionel Messi is all set to leave Paris Saint-Germain after his contract with the Ligue 1 Champions ends at the end of season in June, manager Christophe Galtier confirmed ahead of PSG's final game of the season this weekend.

Messi joined the Les Parisiens in the summer of 2021 from La Liga giants Barcelona with whom the Argentine superstar won many accolades in his career, including three Champions League titles.

The forward, who helped Argentina lift the World Cup last year in Qatar and PSG win back to back league titles in his two seasons, will play his last game for PSG against Clermont on Saturday (June 3).

"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 (June 1).

"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 added. "He's always been there for the team. It's been a great privilege to accompany him throughout the season."

Messi, who has 21 goals and 20 assists for PSG in all competitions this season, has been linked with different clubs since the reports of him potentially running down the contract were revealed last month.

The 35-year-old has been linked with a return to Barcelona, and manager Xavi revealed earlier this week that talks have taken place.

"I told the president that Messi return makes sense," Xavi said. "No doubts at all, he is perfect for our system and idea. I've the tactical plan in mind with Leo. It's up to Leo. I think he has to decide, it's up to him... I'm speaking with Leo, yes."

Where will Messi play next season?

While a reunion with his former club would be a dream for all involved, there are also lucrative offers on the table from the US and the Gulf as David Beckham-owned Inter Miami and Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal are exploring a deal for the forward.

In fact the Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal are reportedly prepared to pay the Argentine superstar £1bn over a two-year period in order to pit him against his former rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who moved to Al-Nassr earlier in the year.