Lionel Messi has uploaded an apology video regarding his unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia on his social media platforms. The Argentine spoke in a serious tone, donning a suit, and mentioned that he had been putting off the trip for a while.
On Sunday, PSG were beaten 3-1 by Lorient, and Christophe Galtier had reportedly asked the players to come in for training on Monday morning as a result of the loss. But, the Argentine did not show up and was instead out of the country.
Lionel Messi apology: Forward speaks out on Saudi Arabia trip
“I thought we were going to have a day off after the game as it always does. I had this trip organised and couldn’t cancel it. I had already cancelled it before. I apologise to my teammates and I’m waiting for what the club wants to do with me,” Lionel Messi said in the video.
The 35-year-old’s behaviour sparked protests from the PSG ultras outside the club headquarters. They chanted “Messi, son of a bitch” also amidst the news that the player will be leaving the club at the end of the season when his contract expires.
PSG have reportedly suspended the Argentine for two weeks without pay. During this time, he will not participate in training or play with the first team.