Lionel Messi’s father and agent Jorge Messi has hit out against “malicious” reports that the Argentina superstar’s move to Saudi Arabia for next season is a done deal.
The AFP news agency reported that Messi would join an as-yet-unnamed club in the kingdom next season after his PSG contract expires. The contract, a source told the AFP, “is exceptional. It’s huge.”
L’Equipe followed with their own report that Messi had a verbal agreement in place with a Saudi club, though nothing had been signed.
In response to those reports, Jorge Messi posted a fiery statement on his Instagram story.
“There is absolutely nothing [in place] with any club for next season,” he said. “The decision will never be taken before Lionel finishes the league campaign with PSG.
“Once the season is finished, it will be time to analyze what is happening and to take a decision. There are always rumors, and many use Lionel’s name to gain notoriety, but there is only one truth, and we can ensure that there is nothing with no one. Neither verbal, nor signed, nor agreed, and there won’t be until the season is finished.
“For me, the fact that there are people that lie in a deliberate and conscious manner, without bringing forward a shred of proof to back up their statements, and who want to turn every ill-intentioned, or self-interested rumor into news, is lacking respect for the media they work for. They may have to explain why their news isn’t confirmed… they won’t want the truth to ruin their ‘news’.”
All signs pointing to Saudi Arabia
Though Messi’s father strongly denied any move had been agreed, there is too much smoke here to ignore.
Messi’s time with PSG is certain to end when the season comes to a close after the club suspended the Argentina superstar for an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia — the final act of a relationship that had been declining for months.
Barcelona is keen on a storybook return for Messi, but it’s unclear if club, player and La Liga will be able to align on the complicated financial package that will be required. Inter Miami, meanwhile, remains interested, but MLS simply can’t come close to the riches on offer in Saudi Arabia.
The AFP and L’Equipe are generally reliable sources. Messi is already a paid spokesperson for the gulf kingdom. Joining a Saudi club for untold riches seems the next logical step.
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