Messi returns to Paris following negative PCR test

There is good news for Paris Saint-Germain, with Lionel Messi having finally returned to Paris. The forward tested positive for COVID-19 last week and had to remain in Rosario, where he was spending the Christmas break.

That positive test was on December 28, but he has now come through the period of isolation and has presented a negative PCR test, meaning he has been able to fly back to France.

The 34-year-old will now have other physical tests with the PSG doctors, to ensure he is fully fit and that the virus hasn't left any lingering effects. It'll be like a typical pre-season medical test.

PSG are optimistic and not ruling Messi out of their next game, a Ligue 1 trip to face Lyon on Sunday night. With the Argentine having been unable to train for a week, that might be overly optimistic.