However, the situation has become uncertain, and Messi was booed by PSG fans during a recent Ligue 1 defeat to Lyon. PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi has pledged to do everything possible to keep Messi, but a separation this summer seems likely, according to L'Equipe. Al-Khelaifi and Messi's father, Jorge Messi, reportedly held positive talks about a one-year extension during the World Cup break, but nothing came of them. Talks are still ongoing, but the chances of the two sides reaching an agreement appear to be decreasing.
Messi left Barcelona in 2021 due to the club's financial difficulties, but he has been linked with a return to the Catalan club. However, Barca's lingering financial problems could scuttle the deal. Clubs in Saudi Arabia and MLS are eager to entice Messi away from Paris, but he reportedly wishes to play in the Champions League for the 2023-24 season. A new short-term contract with PSG may be possible, but Messi would be required to accept a significant pay cut, which he would be hesitant to do. PSG may demand a salary reduction of up to 25%, but a lack of concrete offers from other Champions League teams could compel Messi to reconsider.
In his first season in France, Messi scored just six goals in Ligue 1. However, he has regained his form, scoring 18 goals and providing 17 assists in 33 games during the current season. With 29 goals and 32 assists in 67 games across all competitions for PSG, he has helped Christophe Galtier's team to maintain a six-point lead at the top of the Ligue 1 table.
