Lionel Messi is In Saudi Arabia : Lionel Messi traveled to Saudi Arabia on Monday the day after PSG’s latest Ligue 1 defeat against Lorient. The leaders of the league were beaten 3-1 and Messi did not train the next day as he goes to the Middle East.
His visit, as part of his role as Saudi tourism ambassador, was immortalized by the minister of tourism.
A stay that does not fall at the best time for the 35-year old Argentine following PSG’s lost to Lorient at the Parc des Princes.
As the group was called for a recovery session in the morning, the Argentinian headed for Riyadh, the Saudi capital, where his arrival at the airport did not go unnoticed.
He joined the oil-rich state as part of his lucrative contract as the country’s tourism ambassador. This was confirmed by a message from Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb on Twitter.
Meanwhile Messi’s trip has surprised his teammates who were unaware.
“I am happy to welcome Messi and his family to Saudi Arabia to enjoy magical tourist destinations and authentic experiences.
We welcome visitors from all over the world to experience a unique journey to Saudi Arabia and its hospitality.”
He embellished this tweet with three photos of Messi, his wife Antonella Roccuzzo and two of their three sons. The Argentinian star appears there all smiles playing a local game, feeding animals or watching a craftsman work.
On Sunday, Messi had posted a message on his Instagram account (shared with the official tourist board page), appearing to announce his impending trip.
“Who thought Saudi Arabia had so much greenery? I like to explore its unexpected wonders whenever I can.”
According to information from RMC Sport, Messi’s trip to Saudi Arabia surprised his teammates who were unaware as they only discovered his absence at the training session following the Lorient defeat.
Even if it was planned, the timing of this move raises questions for a player who is certainly exceptional but whose performance has not been at the level for a few games.
In addition, at 35, his ability to recover raises questions. He was already in Barcelona last week to spend a few days with his family.
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