Lionel Messi breaks silence on PSG exit ahead of summer transfer

Lionel Messi has opened up on his exit from Paris Saint Germain ahead of making a huge transfer decision this summer.

Messi, 35, will make his final appearance for the club as he prepares to face Clermont at the Parc des Princes later this evening (8pm kick-off), having already wrapped up the Ligue 1 title to add to his ever-growing list of accolades.

The Argentinian international, who led his nation to World Cup glory back in December, arrived at PSG back in 2021 after departing Barcelona, where had forged a legendary career across his 21-years at the La Liga side.

Speaking ahead of the clash against Clermont, his manager Christophe Galtier outlined how privileged he has been to work with the 'best football player ever' throughout their time at the club together, whilst also confirming his exit from the club in the statement released. He said: “I will take away that I have had the privilege of coaching the best football player ever, Leo Messi.

🚨 PSG manager Christophe Galtier has just confirmed that Leo Messi will leave PSG at the end of the season.

“I had a privilege of coaching the best player in the history of football. It will be Leo’s last match at the Parc des Princes against Clermont”. pic.twitter.com/hieCFUFBQm

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 1, 2023

“Saturday will be his last game at the Parc des Princes. I hope he will be welcomed in the best way possible.”

Despite the glowing review from his boss, his relationship with the fans quickly regressed after the play took a controversial trip to Saudi Arabia, despite being instructed not to by the club which eventually led to a two-week suspension for the former Barcelona man.

The fans have since booed Messi on his return, which made his exit from France almost inevitable with the player now continuously linked with either a return to the Catalan club or a move to Saudi Arabia to face his long-term rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, once again with a possible deal with Al Hilal on the table.

Per ESPN, Messi has now opened up on his exit from PSG but did not provide an update on the next move in regards to where he will land this summer. He said: "I'm very happy to have been able to represent PSG. I really enjoyed playing in this team and with such good players. I would like to thank the club for this wonderful experience."