Lionel Messi’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) expires this summer, and the superstar footballer will likely leave the club. Negotiations between Messi’s representatives and PSG for a contract renewal were positive during the World Cup in Qatar, but circumstances have changed.
Although PSG signed Messi as a free agent in the summer of 2021, his departure from the club this summer would suit all parties. PSG’s new strategy focuses on young French players rather than superstar signings. This change in direction means that PSG would be happy to let go of Messi, who has not been performing as well as expected since the World Cup.
Sections of PSG’s fan base turned on Messi after the club’s elimination from the Champions League by Bayern Munich last month. Messi and the team have lost seven games in all competitions in 2023, and his departure would fit in with the club’s new plan.
Messi’s departure from PSG would also benefit the footballer, as he still believes he can play at the highest level in Europe. Barcelona has made no secret of their desire to re-sign Messi this summer, but whether they can afford to offer him a new contract remains to be seen. However, it is much more likely that Messi will stay in Europe than move to Inter Miami or any other Major League Soccer club or Saudi Arabia at this career stage.
Neymar, another PSG superstar, could also leave the Ligue 1 club as PSG shifts towards homegrown talent. Neymar’s contract with the club expires in the summer of 2025.
Messi’s father, Jorge, sat down with PSG sporting director Luis Campos in Paris in February to discuss a new deal for the Argentina captain. However, a decision on Messi’s future has not been made yet, and it remains to be seen where he will play next season.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi will likely leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer when his contract expires. PSG’s new strategy of focusing on young French players means they would be happy to let go of the superstar footballer. Messi believes he can still play at the highest level in Europe and may re-sign with Barcelona. Neymar could also leave PSG as the club shifts towards homegrown talent. However, the final decision on Messi’s future has not been made yet, and football fans will have to wait to see where he will play next season.
