PSG’s Lionel Messi returns to collective training

Lionel Messi (35) has trained with his Paris Saint-Germain teammates for the first time since his two-week suspension was lifted.

RMC Sport journalist Fabrice Hawkins has reported that Messi was present for collective training on Tuesday. The Argentinian World Champion made an early return to the Camp des Loges on Monday. Having been suspended for two weeks by PSG for an unsanctioned visit to Saudi Arabia in the wake of a 3-1 defeat against FC Lorient, an apology video posted by Messi saw his suspension cut short. That video was appreciated by the hierarchy at the club and has facilitated an accelerated reintegration.

Due to Les Parisens’ 3-1 victory against ESTAC Troyes, Monday was a day off for the squad, but Messi returned. As expected Messi has now trained with his teammates, and will therefore be available to face AC Ajaccio this Saturday. Despite the reconciliation between the two parties, Messi is still expected to leave PSG this summer, although his destination remains unclear. L’Équipe have reported that the former Barcelona forward has a verbal agreement in place to join the Saudi Arabian top flight, but contacted by Get French Football News, his entourage have denied any such agreement.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle