Soccer: Messi to Face Disciplinary Action Over Saudi Trip

story

May 03, 2023

Image copyright: Reuters [via Al Jazeera]story last updated May 03, 2023

The Facts

Superstar forward for the French soccer team Paris St Germain (PSG), Lionel Messi, will reportedly not have his contract renewed after he took an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia. Messi had signed an optional third-season clause in the contract, but team officials won't activate it.
Messi, who missed practice due to the trip, will reportedly also face a two-week suspension from practice and gameplay without pay. One source claimed the team never authorized the World Cup champion's Saudi trip, where he has a commercial contract to promote tourism.

The Spin

Narrative A

Though his contract allows him to sign any promotional contracts he wants, Messi still disrespected his team at a time when they cannot afford to appear unprofessional. PSG, which has already failed to win a title since signing the superstar, has continued to struggle to maintain what should be an easy first-place position. Cutting ties with him is likely the best decision for both parties.

The Athletic

Narrative B

It's not unfair to say that PSG knew who it was signing when adding soccer phenom Lionel Messi to the roster. It's not uncommon for players to take days off after a game and, though the team asked him not to go to Saudi Arabia, his trip had been planned weeks in advance and would have been approved if they had won. This seems like an unnecessary feud between a struggling team and its number-one player.

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