Christophe Galtier confirms Lionel Messi will leave PSG

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Christopher Galtier has confirmed the departure of attacker Lionel Messi.

The Argentine forward will play his last game for PSG on Saturday when they face Clermont.

After two successful years in France, the 35-year-old will leave the club as a free agent. 

Messi’s first season was unremarkable, but he turned it around and had a brilliant campaign this term.

PSG wanted to renew his contract but decided against it after crashing out of the Champions League.

Messi leaves after winning three trophies with Les Parisiens, including back-to-back Ligue 1 titles.

Galtier praised the former Barcelona man and said he was happy to have worked with him.

At his press conference this afternoon, Galtier said: “I have had the privilege of managing the best player of all time. It will be his last match at the Parc des Princes.

“I hope he will be welcomed in the best possible way. 

“He was an important part of the team this season and was always available. I don’t find the remarks and criticism to be justified.”

Messi has bagged 16 goals and 16 assists in the league this term. No one in Ligue 1 has provided more assists.

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is not keen on a move to Saudi Arabia this summer. He has an offer from the Saudi Pro League but wants to stay in Europe.

Messi has his heart set on a return to Barcelona, but the Catalans have not submitted a formal offer to him.

Barca are in deep financial trouble and require approval from La Liga before they can sign or register players.

The 2022 World Cup winner also has long-term admirers in Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami.

The David Beckham-owned club will make Messi an offer he if does not join Barcelona.