The famed Argentinian star Lionel Messi has officially signed a two-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on Tuesday night after he bid farewell to his career-long association with Barcelona.
Lionel Messi, after joining PSG, in his statement said, “I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain.”
“Everything about the club matches my football ambitions. I know how talented the squad and the coaching staff are here. I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes.”
According to media reports, no salary details were given but the popular football champion is set to earn approximately 35 million euros ($41m) net.
“I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain and we are proud to welcome him and his family to Paris,” PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi said.
“He has made no secret of his desire to continue competing at the very highest level and winning trophies, and naturally our ambition as a club is to do the same.”
Twitterati Paid A Teary-Eyed Tribute To Messi As He Leaves Barca Club
FC Barcelona wholeheartedly showed its gratitude to the player for his participation in the club and wished him all the very best for the future in his personal and professional life.
The official statement by the club read, “Despite FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi having reached an agreement and the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, this cannot happen because of financial and structural obstacles (Spanish Liga regulations).
“As a result of this situation, Messi shall not be staying on at FC Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of the player and the club will ultimately not be fulfilled.
“FC Barcelona wholeheartedly expresses its gratitude to the player for his contribution to the aggrandisement of the club and wishes him all the very best for the future in his personal and professional life.”
What agreement did Messi and Barca have?
Messi had agreed to sign a new five-year contract with the Spanish giants.
The 34-year-old was set to allow a partnership that would see his weekly wage reduced by 50%.
But the club’s financial situation made it impossible for them to register him for the new season without drastically reducing their wage bill.
