Brazilian health officials accused four Argentine footballers of breaking quarantine rules on Saturday and began an investigation that could lead to their exclusion from this weekend`s World Cup qualifier between the two sides. 
 
The Argentina squad flew into Brazil on Friday, the day after beating Venezuela 3-1 in a World Cup qualifier in Caracas. 
 
The squad for Sunday`s game at the Corinthians arena contains four players who play in England, Emiliano Buendia and Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur duo Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero. 
 
Anvisa said that with few exemptions non-Brazilians were prohibited from entering Brazil from Britain, Northern Ireland, South Africa or India. 
 
Those given exemptions must advise authorities on arrival and spend 14 days in quarantine. 
 
"The players in question, who arrived in Brazil on a flight from Caracas (Venezuela) to Guarulhos, declared they had not spent time in any of the four countries with restrictions on them in the last 14 days," Anvisa said in a statement. 
 
In a separate statement the Sao Paulo State Health Secretariat said "an epidimiological and sanitary investigation has begun." 
 
Brazilian news site UOL said if the four players could not provide documents showing they were exempt from quarantine they could be prevented from playing in Sunday`s game. 
 
Brazil lead the South American qualifying group for Qatar 2022, six points ahead of second-placed Argentina. The top four qualify automatically for the World Cup. 
 
There has been anger in South America after several teams were deprived of key players for this month’s triple header of qualifiers. 
 
Brazil are without nine key men for the Argentina game, and other South American sides have also lost players due to a decision by some European clubs not to let their players travel to the continent. 
 
They would have to quarantine on return and the clubs do not want to lose their players for subsequent league games. 
 
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni criticised the decision earlier on Saturday and said it compromised the integrity of the World Cup. 
 
“It is not equal and that’s very clear,” Scaloni said. 
&nbsp;

Brazilian health officials accused four Argentine footballers of breaking quarantine rules on Saturday and began an investigation that could lead to their exclusion from this weekend`s World Cup qualifier between the two sides.

Brazilian health officials accused four Argentine footballers of breaking quarantine rules on Saturday and began an investigation that could lead to their exclusion from this weekend`s World Cup qualifier between the two sides. The Argentina squad flew into Brazil on Friday, the day after beating Venezuela 3-1 in a World Cup qualifier in Caracas. The squad for Sunday`s game at the Corinthians arena contains four players who play in England, Emiliano Buendia and Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur duo Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero. Anvisa said that with few exemptions non-Brazilians were prohibited from entering Brazil from Britain, Northern Ireland, South Africa or India. Those given exemptions must advise authorities on arrival and spend 14 days in quarantine. "The players in question, who arrived in Brazil on a flight from Caracas (Venezuela) to Guarulhos, declared they had not spent time in any of the four countries with restrictions on them in the last 14 days," Anvisa said in a statement. In a separate statement the Sao Paulo State Health Secretariat said "an epidimiological and sanitary investigation has begun." Brazilian news site UOL said if the four players could not provide documents showing they were exempt from quarantine they could be prevented from playing in Sunday`s game. Brazil lead the South American qualifying group for Qatar 2022, six points ahead of second-placed Argentina. The top four qualify automatically for the World Cup. There has been anger in South America after several teams were deprived of key players for this month’s triple header of qualifiers. Brazil are without nine key men for the Argentina game, and other South American sides have also lost players due to a decision by some European clubs not to let their players travel to the continent. They would have to quarantine on return and the clubs do not want to lose their players for subsequent league games. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni criticised the decision earlier on Saturday and said it compromised the integrity of the World Cup. “It is not equal and that’s very clear,” Scaloni said.

Argentina football players face health inquiry ahead of Brazil match

Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo: Best football transfers in the summer of 2021

After a long wait, Lionel Messi finally made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 during the side's encounter versus Reims. While Messi finally wore the PSG jersey and came on as a substitute on Sunday,&nbsp;but it was Kylian Mbappe who stole the show by scoring twice in a 2-0 win against Reims.

Since Argentina's historic 1-0 win over Brazil in the Copa America final, on July 11, the Argentine hadn't&nbsp;returned back to the ground since arriving in Paris from Barcelona, a deal which got finalised almost three weeks ago. Thus, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner waited for sometime before he was brought on the field during the 66th minute and will now have to wait for his first goal with his new club, which might come when PSG host Clermont in their upcoming fixture on September 11.

"I'm very happy that he made his debut. It was very important for him," PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino told broadcaster Amazon Prime after Messi's low-key first appearance. He added, "He is still far away from his best form but he has been training well and he will be fit in the next two weeks, after the international break and, yes, we are waiting for the best from him."

Though fans were eagerly waiting for Messi's return to the field and for him to start his journey sans Barcelona, Mbappe has made the maximum noise prior to the game and also during the match versus Reims. With talks of him moving to Real Madrid gaining heat day by day, the France World Cup-winner showed no signs of being distracted and scored both the goals on Sunday.

Pochettino said of Mbappe's future, "Kylian is our player and you know that in football and in business there is always gossip and rumours.&nbsp;I think our president and our sporting director were very clear and he is still here. I am really happy to have Kylian. He is one of the best, one of the most important players in the world today and for him to be with us is a gift."

After a long wait, Lionel Messi finally made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 during the side's encounter versus Reims. While Messi finally wore the PSG jersey and came on as a substitute on Sunday, but it was Kylian Mbappe who stole the show by scoring twice in a 2-0 win against Reims.

After a long wait, Lionel Messi finally made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 during the side's encounter versus Reims. While Messi finally wore the PSG jersey and came on as a substitute on Sunday, but it was Kylian Mbappe who stole the show by scoring twice in a 2-0 win against Reims. Since Argentina's historic 1-0 win over Brazil in the Copa America final, on July 11, the Argentine hadn't returned back to the ground since arriving in Paris from Barcelona, a deal which got finalised almost three weeks ago. Thus, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner waited for sometime before he was brought on the field during the 66th minute and will now have to wait for his first goal with his new club, which might come when PSG host Clermont in their upcoming fixture on September 11. "I'm very happy that he made his debut. It was very important for him," PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino told broadcaster Amazon Prime after Messi's low-key first appearance. He added, "He is still far away from his best form but he has been training well and he will be fit in the next two weeks, after the international break and, yes, we are waiting for the best from him." Though fans were eagerly waiting for Messi's return to the field and for him to start his journey sans Barcelona, Mbappe has made the maximum noise prior to the game and also during the match versus Reims. With talks of him moving to Real Madrid gaining heat day by day, the France World Cup-winner showed no signs of being distracted and scored both the goals on Sunday. Pochettino said of Mbappe's future, "Kylian is our player and you know that in football and in business there is always gossip and rumours. I think our president and our sporting director were very clear and he is still here. I am really happy to have Kylian. He is one of the best, one of the most important players in the world today and for him to be with us is a gift."

Lionel Messi makes his debut in Ligue 1 as Kylian Mbappe steals the show with twin strikes in PSG's 2-0 win vs Reims

Coach Mauricio Pochettino said he had not yet decided if Argentine forward Lionel Messi would be in Paris St Germain's squad for Sunday's Ligue 1 trip to Reims although he would probably be included.

The 34-year-old Messi, who signed a two-year deal with PSG with an option for a third year after his contract with Barcelona expired, has yet to feature in the squad since joining on Aug. 10.

"We need to analyse and we will decide later," Pochettino told a news conference on Saturday.

"They will probably be in the squad," he added, referring to Brazil striker Neymar, France's Kylian Mbappe and Messi.

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PSG said later that the squad would be announced on Sunday morning.

Messi has not played since winning the Copa America with Argentina against Brazil on July 11.

"He is very motivated. He's a great professional who is adapting very fast to his new team mates and to a new context," said Pochettino.

"He has the capacity to adapt to a new league."

Coach Mauricio Pochettino said he had not yet decided if Argentine forward Lionel Messi would be in Paris St Germain's squad for Sunday's Ligue 1 trip to Reims although he would probably be included.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino said he had not yet decided if Argentine forward Lionel Messi would be in Paris St Germain's squad for Sunday's Ligue 1 trip to Reims although he would probably be included. The 34-year-old Messi, who signed a two-year deal with PSG with an option for a third year after his contract with Barcelona expired, has yet to feature in the squad since joining on Aug. 10. "We need to analyse and we will decide later," Pochettino told a news conference on Saturday. "They will probably be in the squad," he added, referring to Brazil striker Neymar, France's Kylian Mbappe and Messi. ALSO READ | Juventus start life without Cristiano Ronaldo with shock loss to Empoli PSG said later that the squad would be announced on Sunday morning. Messi has not played since winning the Copa America with Argentina against Brazil on July 11. "He is very motivated. He's a great professional who is adapting very fast to his new team mates and to a new context," said Pochettino. "He has the capacity to adapt to a new league."

Mauricio Pochettino has yet to decide if Lionel Messi will make Reims trip

Argentine forward Lionel Messi has been included in Paris St Germain`s squad for Sunday`s Ligue 1 trip to Reims, the club said on Sunday. 
 
The 34-year-old, who signed a two-year deal with PSG with an option for the third year after his contract with Barcelona expired, had yet to feature in the squad since joining on Aug. 10. 
 
Messi has not played since winning the Copa America with Argentina against Brazil on July 10. 
 
Also in the squad are France striker Kylian Mbappe and Brazil forward Neymar. 
 
PSG have a maximum nine points in the Ligue 1 table.

Argentine forward Lionel Messi has been included in Paris St Germain`s squad for Sunday`s Ligue 1 trip to Reims, the club said on Sunday. The 34-year-old, who signed a two-year deal with PSG with an option for the third year after his contract with Barcelona expired, had yet to feature in the squad since joining on Aug.

Argentine forward Lionel Messi has been included in Paris St Germain`s squad for Sunday`s Ligue 1 trip to Reims, the club said on Sunday. The 34-year-old, who signed a two-year deal with PSG with an option for the third year after his contract with Barcelona expired, had yet to feature in the squad since joining on Aug. 10. Messi has not played since winning the Copa America with Argentina against Brazil on July 10. Also in the squad are France striker Kylian Mbappe and Brazil forward Neymar. PSG have a maximum nine points in the Ligue 1 table.

Lionel Messi included in PSG squad for Reims Ligue 1 trip

Lionel Messi`s new club Paris St Germain will play Manchester City, managed by the Argentine`s former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola, after being drawn together in Champion`s League Group A on Thursday. Messi joined Qatari-owned PSG, who will also face Bundesliga side RB Leipzig and Belgium`s Brugge, from Barcelona this month after the Spanish side were unable to afford a new contract for the forward. 
 
The draw pits two of European soccer`s wealthiest teams against each other once again as they both seek a first Champions League title, with City beating the French side 4-1 on aggregate in last season`s semis. 
 
Abu Dhabi-owned City went on to lose the final to Premier League rivals Chelsea, who were drawn in Group H against Juventus, Zenit St Petersburg and Malmo. 
 
City have yet to lose to PSG in the Champions League but Messi has also scored more goals against them -- six in six games -- than any other side in the competition. 
 
"After the Porto, Liverpool, Atletico Madrid group, our group is probably the second most difficult one," said City`s director of football Txiki Begiristain. 
 
"Some of the big names in football are going to be out. That is the magnitude of this competition." 
 
Spanish champions Atletico Madrid and Liverpool were drawn in a tricky Group B with former winners Porto and AC Milan, while Real Madrid play Inter Milan, Shakhtar Donetsk and Moldovan debutants Sheriff Tiraspol in Group D. 
 
Six-times winners Liverpool and manager Juergen Klopp will at least have fond memories of Atletico`s Metropolitano stadium after winning the 2019 title there against Tottenham Hotspur. 
 
"I laughed, to be honest, pretty loud because it is a tough group obviously," Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com. 
 
"We played, I don`t know how often, already against Porto, so they will be waiting for us. We have obviously a little bit of (an) open bill with Atletico, and AC Milan, a historical one obviously. 
 
"I think our supporters should be looking forward to it -- we do, for sure." 
 
AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli, whose club beat Liverpool in the 2007 final after losing memorably in 2005, said it was certainly a "stimulating" group. 
 
"Together in our group we have 15 Champions League wins. We expected it, this is the Champions League and we can`t wait to start. We will try to do important things," he added. 
 
Inter, Shakhtar and Real were also in the same group last time around with the Italian side finishing last. 
 
Barcelona were drawn in Group E with Bayern Munich, Benfica and Dynamo Kyiv. Manchester United will have another meeting with Spain`s Villarreal, a repeat of this year`s Europa League final, in Group F along with Atalanta and Swiss side Young Boys. 
 
Sporting Lisbon drew Borussia Dortmund, Ajax and Besiktas in Group C with Lille, Sevilla, Salzburg and VfL Wolfsburg together in Group G. The first group games will be on Sept. 14 and 15 with the final played in St Petersburg on May 28 next year.

Lionel Messi`s new club Paris St Germain will play Manchester City, managed by the Argentine`s former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola, after being drawn together in Champion`s League Group A on Thursday.

Lionel Messi`s new club Paris St Germain will play Manchester City, managed by the Argentine`s former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola, after being drawn together in Champion`s League Group A on Thursday. Messi joined Qatari-owned PSG, who will also face Bundesliga side RB Leipzig and Belgium`s Brugge, from Barcelona this month after the Spanish side were unable to afford a new contract for the forward. The draw pits two of European soccer`s wealthiest teams against each other once again as they both seek a first Champions League title, with City beating the French side 4-1 on aggregate in last season`s semis. Abu Dhabi-owned City went on to lose the final to Premier League rivals Chelsea, who were drawn in Group H against Juventus, Zenit St Petersburg and Malmo. City have yet to lose to PSG in the Champions League but Messi has also scored more goals against them -- six in six games -- than any other side in the competition. "After the Porto, Liverpool, Atletico Madrid group, our group is probably the second most difficult one," said City`s director of football Txiki Begiristain. "Some of the big names in football are going to be out. That is the magnitude of this competition." Spanish champions Atletico Madrid and Liverpool were drawn in a tricky Group B with former winners Porto and AC Milan, while Real Madrid play Inter Milan, Shakhtar Donetsk and Moldovan debutants Sheriff Tiraspol in Group D. Six-times winners Liverpool and manager Juergen Klopp will at least have fond memories of Atletico`s Metropolitano stadium after winning the 2019 title there against Tottenham Hotspur. "I laughed, to be honest, pretty loud because it is a tough group obviously," Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com. "We played, I don`t know how often, already against Porto, so they will be waiting for us. We have obviously a little bit of (an) open bill with Atletico, and AC Milan, a historical one obviously. "I think our supporters should be looking forward to it -- we do, for sure." AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli, whose club beat Liverpool in the 2007 final after losing memorably in 2005, said it was certainly a "stimulating" group. "Together in our group we have 15 Champions League wins. We expected it, this is the Champions League and we can`t wait to start. We will try to do important things," he added. Inter, Shakhtar and Real were also in the same group last time around with the Italian side finishing last. Barcelona were drawn in Group E with Bayern Munich, Benfica and Dynamo Kyiv. Manchester United will have another meeting with Spain`s Villarreal, a repeat of this year`s Europa League final, in Group F along with Atalanta and Swiss side Young Boys. Sporting Lisbon drew Borussia Dortmund, Ajax and Besiktas in Group C with Lille, Sevilla, Salzburg and VfL Wolfsburg together in Group G. The first group games will be on Sept. 14 and 15 with the final played in St Petersburg on May 28 next year.

Lionel Messi's PSG draw Pep Guardiola's Man City in Champions League group stage

Superstar Lionel Messi was called up on Monday to the Argentina squad due to face his new Paris Saint-Germain teammate Neymar and Brazil in a World Cup qualifier next month.

The crunch CONMEBOL encounter on September 5 will mark the first time the two icons face each other as PSG teammates, and will come less than two months after Messi inspired Argentina to a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the Copa America final.

The highly-anticipated encounter is sandwiched between two other World Cup qualifiers, with Argentina playing Venezuela on September 2 and Bolivia a week later.

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Brazil lead the single CONMEBOL qualifying group with a perfect 18 points from six matches, while Argentina are second with 12 points and also unbeaten.

Messi won his first international trophy in July as he helped Argentina end a 27-year wait for major silverware by upsetting Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's iconic Maracana stadium.

The two countries' star players are yet to play alongside each other this season as both have been given an extended break by PSG following their Copa exertions.

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After more than two decades playing at Barcelona, Messi is widely expected to make his PSG debut this weekend away to Reims.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni sprung no surprises in his squad with Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala of Juventus included among powerful-looking forward options, although new Barca signing Sergio Aguero misses out through injury.

Two other PSG players, Angel Di Maria, who scored the winner in the Copa America final, and Leandro Paredes&nbsp;are in the squad.

PSG defender Marquinhos will join Neymar in the Brazil squad.&nbsp;

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Franco Armani (River Plate), Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa/ENG), Juan Musso (Atalanta/ITA), Geronimo Rulli (Villarreal/ESP)

Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel (Sevilla/ESP), Nahuel Molina (Udinese/ITA), Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica/POR), Juan Foyth (Villarreal/ESP), Lucas Martinez Quarta (Fiorentina/ITA), German Pezzella (Real Betis/ESP), Lisandro Martinez (Ajax/ NED), Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax/NED), Marcos Acuna (Sevilla/ESP)

Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Leandro Paredes (Paris Saint-Germain/Francia), Giovani Lo Celso (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Guido Rodriguez (Real Betis/ESP), Nicolas Dominguez (Bologna/ITA), Alejandro Gomez (Sevilla/ESP), Angel Di Maria (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA)

Forwards:&nbsp;Lionel Messi (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Emiliano Buendia (Aston Villa/ENG), Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan/ITA), Nicolas Gonzalez (Fiorentina/ITA), Angel Correa (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Julian Alvarez (River Plate), Joaquin Correa (Lazio/ITA), Paulo Dybala (Juventus/ITA)

Superstar Lionel Messi was called up on Monday to the Argentina squad due to face his new Paris Saint-Germain teammate Neymar and Brazil in a World Cup qualifier next month.

Superstar Lionel Messi was called up on Monday to the Argentina squad due to face his new Paris Saint-Germain teammate Neymar and Brazil in a World Cup qualifier next month. The crunch CONMEBOL encounter on September 5 will mark the first time the two icons face each other as PSG teammates, and will come less than two months after Messi inspired Argentina to a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the Copa America final. The highly-anticipated encounter is sandwiched between two other World Cup qualifiers, with Argentina playing Venezuela on September 2 and Bolivia a week later. ALSO WATCH | Joshua Kimmich extends stay at Bayern Munich to 2025 Brazil lead the single CONMEBOL qualifying group with a perfect 18 points from six matches, while Argentina are second with 12 points and also unbeaten. Messi won his first international trophy in July as he helped Argentina end a 27-year wait for major silverware by upsetting Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's iconic Maracana stadium. The two countries' star players are yet to play alongside each other this season as both have been given an extended break by PSG following their Copa exertions. ALSO READ | Watch: Players attacked, bottles thrown as Nice vs Marseille match abandoned after angry fans invade pitch After more than two decades playing at Barcelona, Messi is widely expected to make his PSG debut this weekend away to Reims. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni sprung no surprises in his squad with Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala of Juventus included among powerful-looking forward options, although new Barca signing Sergio Aguero misses out through injury. Two other PSG players, Angel Di Maria, who scored the winner in the Copa America final, and Leandro Paredes are in the squad. PSG defender Marquinhos will join Neymar in the Brazil squad. Squad: Goalkeepers: Franco Armani (River Plate), Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa/ENG), Juan Musso (Atalanta/ITA), Geronimo Rulli (Villarreal/ESP) Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel (Sevilla/ESP), Nahuel Molina (Udinese/ITA), Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica/POR), Juan Foyth (Villarreal/ESP), Lucas Martinez Quarta (Fiorentina/ITA), German Pezzella (Real Betis/ESP), Lisandro Martinez (Ajax/ NED), Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax/NED), Marcos Acuna (Sevilla/ESP) Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Leandro Paredes (Paris Saint-Germain/Francia), Giovani Lo Celso (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Guido Rodriguez (Real Betis/ESP), Nicolas Dominguez (Bologna/ITA), Alejandro Gomez (Sevilla/ESP), Angel Di Maria (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA) Forwards: Lionel Messi (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Emiliano Buendia (Aston Villa/ENG), Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan/ITA), Nicolas Gonzalez (Fiorentina/ITA), Angel Correa (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Julian Alvarez (River Plate), Joaquin Correa (Lazio/ITA), Paulo Dybala (Juventus/ITA)

Argentina call up Lionel Messi for World Cup qualifier against Neymar's Brazil

FC Barcelona head coach Ronald Koeman on Saturday admitted that the Blaugrana club is less feared without Lionel Messi.

Barcelona manager stated that the rivals were "more scared" when the Argentine was leading the attack for their side. This statement by Koeman came after his side struggled against Athletic Club and managed to just retrieve a point in their second La Liga match of the season.

"I don`t like to always talk about the same thing, but we`re talking about the best in the world," the Dutchman told in his post-match press conference, as per Goal.com.

"Our opponents were more scared when Messi was here. For us as well, if you pass the ball to Leo, usually he won`t lose it. You can tell [Messi] isn`t there. We know that and we can`t change it."

The six-times Ballon d`Or winner left the Catalan side as a free agent after the Spanish club announced that "financial and structural obstacles" meant the deal between them and Messi could not be completed.

San Mames is never an easy place to win as Barca have struggled there in recent seasons and the Saturday clash was no exception. Indeed, for much of the ninety minutes, they had their backs against the wall, and Athletic were good value for their 1-0 lead.

A flash of inspired brilliance was needed, and it came from the left foot of Memphis. The Dutchman was able to salvage a point from one of the most difficult road trips in La Liga, and in doing so celebrate his first official goal in an FC Barcelona jersey.

Next Sunday, Barca will be back at Camp Nou, where Getafe will be their visitors.&nbsp;

FC Barcelona head coach Ronald Koeman on Saturday admitted that the Blaugrana club is less feared without Lionel Messi. Barcelona manager stated that the rivals were "more scared" when the Argentine was leading the attack for their side.

FC Barcelona head coach Ronald Koeman on Saturday admitted that the Blaugrana club is less feared without Lionel Messi. Barcelona manager stated that the rivals were "more scared" when the Argentine was leading the attack for their side. This statement by Koeman came after his side struggled against Athletic Club and managed to just retrieve a point in their second La Liga match of the season. "I don`t like to always talk about the same thing, but we`re talking about the best in the world," the Dutchman told in his post-match press conference, as per Goal.com. "Our opponents were more scared when Messi was here. For us as well, if you pass the ball to Leo, usually he won`t lose it. You can tell [Messi] isn`t there. We know that and we can`t change it." The six-times Ballon d`Or winner left the Catalan side as a free agent after the Spanish club announced that "financial and structural obstacles" meant the deal between them and Messi could not be completed. San Mames is never an easy place to win as Barca have struggled there in recent seasons and the Saturday clash was no exception. Indeed, for much of the ninety minutes, they had their backs against the wall, and Athletic were good value for their 1-0 lead. A flash of inspired brilliance was needed, and it came from the left foot of Memphis. The Dutchman was able to salvage a point from one of the most difficult road trips in La Liga, and in doing so celebrate his first official goal in an FC Barcelona jersey. Next Sunday, Barca will be back at Camp Nou, where Getafe will be their visitors.

With Lionel Messi in team, opponents were more scared of Barcelona, admits Ronald Koeman

FC Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has said that the other teams are playing bold as the La Liga giants are without star player Lionel Messi, who recently joined Paris St Germain&nbsp;following 21 years at the club.

After Barcelona was held 1-1 away to Athletic Bilbao on Saturday (August 21), Koeman was quizzed about the game and the absence of Messi.&nbsp;

During the match, a late strike from Memphis Depay cancelled out Inigo Martinez's header to earn Barca a point. The coach said that "opponents are always more scared when Messi is around".

"I don't like to keep talking about the same thing but we're talking about the best player in the world and opponents are always more scared when Messi is around," Koeman told reporters.

"It's also the same for us, if you give a pass to Messi, he normally doesn't lose the ball. You can feel that he is not here any more. We all know it but we can't change it."

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"But I have to highlight the attitude we showed after we went behind. I think the draw is fair because if you play like we did at a ground like this you're always going to run into trouble. I have no complaints about the result."

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Post Game Reactions | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AthleticBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AthleticBarça</a> 
🎙 <a href="https://twitter.com/RonaldKoeman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RonaldKoeman</a> 
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— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1429247291152547840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Regarding the match, Koeman said, "I think we have to highlight the attitude we showed especially after we went behind 1-0. And additionally, we had chances to win the match."

He added, "I think the draw is fair because we saw an Athletic who played at a top level. And if you play like we did at a tough ground like this, you can't complain about the result."

(with inputs from agencies)

FC Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has said that the other teams are playing bold as the La Liga giants are without star player Lionel Messi, who recently joined Paris St Germain following 21 years at the club.

FC Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has said that the other teams are playing bold as the La Liga giants are without star player Lionel Messi, who recently joined Paris St Germain following 21 years at the club. After Barcelona was held 1-1 away to Athletic Bilbao on Saturday (August 21), Koeman was quizzed about the game and the absence of Messi. During the match, a late strike from Memphis Depay cancelled out Inigo Martinez's header to earn Barca a point. The coach said that "opponents are always more scared when Messi is around". "I don't like to keep talking about the same thing but we're talking about the best player in the world and opponents are always more scared when Messi is around," Koeman told reporters. "It's also the same for us, if you give a pass to Messi, he normally doesn't lose the ball. You can feel that he is not here any more. We all know it but we can't change it." ALSO READ | Premier League: Liverpool and Brighton joint top, Manchester City rebound "But I have to highlight the attitude we showed after we went behind. I think the draw is fair because if you play like we did at a ground like this you're always going to run into trouble. I have no complaints about the result." Post Game Reactions | #AthleticBarça 🎙 @RonaldKoeman 🎙 @Memphis pic.twitter.com/AfSUbqfI0c — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 22, 2021 × Regarding the match, Koeman said, "I think we have to highlight the attitude we showed especially after we went behind 1-0. And additionally, we had chances to win the match." He added, "I think the draw is fair because we saw an Athletic who played at a top level. And if you play like we did at a tough ground like this, you can't complain about the result." (with inputs from agencies)

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman says opponents showing more courage against Barca without Lionel Messi

Argentine football star Lionel Messi has launched his own collection of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), crypto art that was created with his image by digital designer BossLogic and will go on sale on Friday.

Messi, 34, is portrayed as a king, superhero and Greek titan in works entitled "Man from the Future," "Worth the Weight," and "The King Piece" that celebrate his career highlights.

Australia-based BossLogic is known for his work with Marvel Studios and Disney.

An NFT is a form of crypto asset which uses blockchain to record the ownership status of digital objects, such as images, videos and text. While anyone can view the item, only the buyer of an NFT has the official status of being its owner.

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The market for NFTs has exploded&nbsp;in recent months. In March of this year, Christie's auction house sold a digital work by the artist known as Beeple for almost $70 million.

"Art is like football. Eternal," Messi said on his Twitter account in early August announcing the launch.

Works in the collection titled "Messiverse" will be available for purchase on the Ethernity Chain platform, known for producing original NFT pieces for sportstars.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-spurs-squander-feel-good-factor-in-european-loss-says-santo-407024">Spurs squander feel-good factor in European loss, says Santo</a>

BossLogic said depicting Messi had been "a huge honor" in a post on Twitter in which he shared the "Man from the Future" artwork, which shows an image of Messi from behind, with the number 30 jersey that he will wear at his new club, Qatari-owned Paris St Germain (PSG).

Messi left Barcelona last week after more than 20 years to join PSG. His signing-on fee includes&nbsp;some of the French club's cryptocurrency fan tokens.

Argentine football star Lionel Messi has launched his own collection of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), crypto art that was created with his image by digital designer BossLogic and will go on sale on Friday.

Argentine football star Lionel Messi has launched his own collection of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), crypto art that was created with his image by digital designer BossLogic and will go on sale on Friday. Messi, 34, is portrayed as a king, superhero and Greek titan in works entitled "Man from the Future," "Worth the Weight," and "The King Piece" that celebrate his career highlights. Australia-based BossLogic is known for his work with Marvel Studios and Disney. An NFT is a form of crypto asset which uses blockchain to record the ownership status of digital objects, such as images, videos and text. While anyone can view the item, only the buyer of an NFT has the official status of being its owner. ALSO READ | Afghan national team's footballer died in fall from US plane at Kabul airport: Report The market for NFTs has exploded in recent months. In March of this year, Christie's auction house sold a digital work by the artist known as Beeple for almost $70 million. "Art is like football. Eternal," Messi said on his Twitter account in early August announcing the launch. Works in the collection titled "Messiverse" will be available for purchase on the Ethernity Chain platform, known for producing original NFT pieces for sportstars. ALSO READ | Spurs squander feel-good factor in European loss, says Santo BossLogic said depicting Messi had been "a huge honor" in a post on Twitter in which he shared the "Man from the Future" artwork, which shows an image of Messi from behind, with the number 30 jersey that he will wear at his new club, Qatari-owned Paris St Germain (PSG). Messi left Barcelona last week after more than 20 years to join PSG. His signing-on fee includes some of the French club's cryptocurrency fan tokens.

Football: Lionel Messi launches 'Messiverse' NFT crypto art collection

Lionel Messi watched on from the stands as Paris St Germain made hard work of beating Strasbourg 4-2 in Ligue 1 on Saturday to continue their winning start to the new season. 
 
Not yet fully fit, Messi, along with Neymar and fellow new recruits Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sergio Ramos, did not make the match squad, but saw his new club take an early lead through Mauro Icardi at Parc des Princes. 
 
Kylian Mbappe then doubled PSG`s advantage in the 25th minute after his shot was deflected home, before the France international`s cross was turned in by Julian Draxler two minutes later to put the hosts 3-0 up. 
 
However, second-half goals from Kevin Gameiro and Ludovic Ajorque got the visitors back into the contest, with PSG looking uneasy in possession. 
 
Alexander Djiku`s dismissal for two bookable offences let PSG off the hook nine minutes from time, with substitute Pablo Sarabia tapping home at the back post in the 86th minute to make sure of the unconvincing victory for Mauricio Pochettino`s side. 
 
The win sent PSG top of the table with two wins from two, while last season`s champions Lille were surprisingly thrashed 4-0 at home by Nice earlier on Saturday.

Lionel Messi watched on from the stands as Paris St Germain made hard work of beating Strasbourg 4-2 in Ligue 1 on Saturday to continue their winning start to the new season.

Lionel Messi watched on from the stands as Paris St Germain made hard work of beating Strasbourg 4-2 in Ligue 1 on Saturday to continue their winning start to the new season. Not yet fully fit, Messi, along with Neymar and fellow new recruits Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sergio Ramos, did not make the match squad, but saw his new club take an early lead through Mauro Icardi at Parc des Princes. Kylian Mbappe then doubled PSG`s advantage in the 25th minute after his shot was deflected home, before the France international`s cross was turned in by Julian Draxler two minutes later to put the hosts 3-0 up. However, second-half goals from Kevin Gameiro and Ludovic Ajorque got the visitors back into the contest, with PSG looking uneasy in possession. Alexander Djiku`s dismissal for two bookable offences let PSG off the hook nine minutes from time, with substitute Pablo Sarabia tapping home at the back post in the 86th minute to make sure of the unconvincing victory for Mauricio Pochettino`s side. The win sent PSG top of the table with two wins from two, while last season`s champions Lille were surprisingly thrashed 4-0 at home by Nice earlier on Saturday.

Football: Lionel Messi watches on as PSG make hard work of beating Strasbourg

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has reacted to Lionel Messi's departure from the club on Saturday. The Dutch coach said that Messi is now in Barcelona's past and the club must live in the present.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-star-defender-raphael-varane-joins-manchester-united-on-a-four-year-deal-405434" hreflang="en">Football - Star defender Raphael Varane joins Manchester United on a four-year deal</a>

Last week, Barcelona had to let go of their all-time top scorer as the club is battling a financial crisis. The Argentine joined Paris Saint-Germain.&nbsp;

"It's painful for all Barcelona fans given what Messi has done for the club, but we cannot live in the past," Koeman told a news conference. "I'm excited for the new season, and I hope the fans are enthusiastic too. We have to live in the present and not the past.

"People have spoken a lot about Messi and that's normal because of how effective he was and his quality. We won't have him around any more, but we still have a very strong squad. There's no excuses now, we've got games to play and points to win."

Despite the financial constraints the club is going through, there is good news for Barca fans as the Spanish giants were able to register new signings Eric Garcia and Memphis Depay after Gerard Pique agreed to take a salary cut to help bring the club in line with the league's financial fair play rules.

The club said in a statement Pique had agreed to take a "significant" pay cut, adding they were in talks with the other club captain Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Sergi Roberto over a squad-wide reduction to help ease the club's financial woes.

"We all know the club's situation and that it needs help so you have to appreciate the attitude of Gerard, of Sergi Roberto and Busquets," added Koeman.

"It proves they are real club men."&nbsp;

(Inputs from Agency)

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has reacted to Lionel Messi's departure from the club on Saturday. The Dutch coach said that Messi is now in Barcelona's past and the club must live in the present.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has reacted to Lionel Messi's departure from the club on Saturday. The Dutch coach said that Messi is now in Barcelona's past and the club must live in the present. ALSO READ: Football - Star defender Raphael Varane joins Manchester United on a four-year deal Last week, Barcelona had to let go of their all-time top scorer as the club is battling a financial crisis. The Argentine joined Paris Saint-Germain. "It's painful for all Barcelona fans given what Messi has done for the club, but we cannot live in the past," Koeman told a news conference. "I'm excited for the new season, and I hope the fans are enthusiastic too. We have to live in the present and not the past. "People have spoken a lot about Messi and that's normal because of how effective he was and his quality. We won't have him around any more, but we still have a very strong squad. There's no excuses now, we've got games to play and points to win." Despite the financial constraints the club is going through, there is good news for Barca fans as the Spanish giants were able to register new signings Eric Garcia and Memphis Depay after Gerard Pique agreed to take a salary cut to help bring the club in line with the league's financial fair play rules. The club said in a statement Pique had agreed to take a "significant" pay cut, adding they were in talks with the other club captain Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Sergi Roberto over a squad-wide reduction to help ease the club's financial woes. "We all know the club's situation and that it needs help so you have to appreciate the attitude of Gerard, of Sergi Roberto and Busquets," added Koeman. "It proves they are real club men." (Inputs from Agency)

'It's painful': Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman reacts to Lionel Messi's departure

Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. However, his fans will have to wait for a few more days to watch him back in action for the French club as he is unlikely to play any part in Saturday's home game against Strasbourg, coach Mauricio Pochettino said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-to-play-along-with-lionel-messi-psg-to-prepare-deal-in-2022-reports-405159" hreflang="en">Football - Cristiano Ronaldo to play along with Lionel Messi? PSG to prepare deal in 2022: Reports</a>

Paris Saint-Germain, despite having stars like Neymar, Mbappe and Di Maria, had a disappointing campaign last year as they lost the Ligue 1 to Lille, whereas, they were knocked out in the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League by Manchester City.&nbsp;

At Friday's news conference, Pochettino said that their first challenge is to ensure the formation of the star-studded&nbsp;team that could overcome any obstacle.&nbsp;

"Our challenge now is to ensure all of these top players form a team capable of meeting all the challenges ahead of it," said Pochettino. "We want to make sure that this team becomes a strong unit.

"As for when we might see Leo Messi in action, it is his second day of training after a month since he played the last game at the Copa America.

"We will take things step by step, get to know each other and have him feel fit and comfortable so that he is able to make his debut when he is fully fit."

"We all know that Leo Messi is the best, or one of the best players in the world, without any doubt. Nevertheless we have other players as well and Kylian is also one of the best players in the world."

Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. However, his fans will have to wait for a few more days to watch him back in action for the French club as he is unlikely to play any part in Saturday's home game against Strasbourg, coach Mauricio Pochettino said.

Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. However, his fans will have to wait for a few more days to watch him back in action for the French club as he is unlikely to play any part in Saturday's home game against Strasbourg, coach Mauricio Pochettino said. ALSO READ: Football - Cristiano Ronaldo to play along with Lionel Messi? PSG to prepare deal in 2022: Reports Paris Saint-Germain, despite having stars like Neymar, Mbappe and Di Maria, had a disappointing campaign last year as they lost the Ligue 1 to Lille, whereas, they were knocked out in the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League by Manchester City. At Friday's news conference, Pochettino said that their first challenge is to ensure the formation of the star-studded team that could overcome any obstacle. "Our challenge now is to ensure all of these top players form a team capable of meeting all the challenges ahead of it," said Pochettino. "We want to make sure that this team becomes a strong unit. "As for when we might see Leo Messi in action, it is his second day of training after a month since he played the last game at the Copa America. "We will take things step by step, get to know each other and have him feel fit and comfortable so that he is able to make his debut when he is fully fit." "We all know that Leo Messi is the best, or one of the best players in the world, without any doubt. Nevertheless we have other players as well and Kylian is also one of the best players in the world."

PSG's Lionel Messi to miss clash against Strasbourg, confirms Mauricio Pochettino

Football star Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. Several PSG fans greeted the Argentine star and welcomed him to France.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/football-here-is-how-much-lionel-messi-will-be-%20making-at-paris-saint-germain-check-out-the-mind-blowing-figures-404840" hreflang="en">Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures</a>

Among the thousands of fans, there were few Indians who wanted to catch the glimpse of the football star. The Indian fans, who were on the adjacent balcony called out Messi's name, and the footballer acknowledged them. They uploaded the video of this 'unforgettable' moment on social media.&nbsp;

The video of Messi acknowledging the Indian fans spread like a wildfire on social media.&nbsp;

Here's the clip of the moment:&nbsp;

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A Malayali’s ecstasy on having seen Lionel Messi on the balcony just beside his in Paris… <a href="https://t.co/lb0oJF77Kb">pic.twitter.com/lb0oJF77Kb</a>
— Ashlin Mathew (@ashlinpmathew) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashlinpmathew/status/1425492321118740491?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Indian fan kept screaming Messi's name and&nbsp;was shocked when the football icon&nbsp;acknowledged him. The overjoyed fan screamed "can't believe this" before he switched to his native language (Malayalam) and said: "Watch on sons, the king of football."

"There's nothing I&nbsp;want more than this", he said and thanked the star.

Lionel Messi said on Wednesday that he is 'extremely happy' after joining star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team.

The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year.

"Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday.

"I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes."

The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe.

The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time.

Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel Messi as a player for the French soccer powerhouse.

"He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference.

French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally".

PSG wasted little time in targeting Messi after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules.

Football star Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. Several PSG fans greeted the Argentine star and welcomed him to France.

Football star Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. Several PSG fans greeted the Argentine star and welcomed him to France. ALSO READ: Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures Among the thousands of fans, there were few Indians who wanted to catch the glimpse of the football star. The Indian fans, who were on the adjacent balcony called out Messi's name, and the footballer acknowledged them. They uploaded the video of this 'unforgettable' moment on social media. The video of Messi acknowledging the Indian fans spread like a wildfire on social media. Here's the clip of the moment: A Malayali’s ecstasy on having seen Lionel Messi on the balcony just beside his in Paris… pic.twitter.com/lb0oJF77Kb — Ashlin Mathew (@ashlinpmathew) August 11, 2021 × The Indian fan kept screaming Messi's name and was shocked when the football icon acknowledged him. The overjoyed fan screamed "can't believe this" before he switched to his native language (Malayalam) and said: "Watch on sons, the king of football." "There's nothing I want more than this", he said and thanked the star. Lionel Messi said on Wednesday that he is 'extremely happy' after joining star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year. "Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday. "I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes." The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe. The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time. Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel Messi as a player for the French soccer powerhouse. "He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference. French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally". PSG wasted little time in targeting Messi after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules.

Watch: 'I dont want anything more': Indian fan screams after Messi waves at him from Paris balcony, video goes viral

Football star Lionel&nbsp;Messi's signing on fee at Paris St Germain includes some of the French club's cryptocurrency fan tokens, in the latest big name endorsement of new digital assets.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/football-here-is-how-much-lionel-messi-will-be-%20making-at-paris-saint-germain-check-out-the-mind-blowing-figures-404840" hreflang="en">Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures</a>

The Argentine, 34, left Spanish side Barcelona and signed a two-year contract with Qatari-owned Paris St Germain (PSG), with an option for a third year, on Tuesday.

Confirming an exclusive Reuters report, PSG said on Thursday the tokens were included in his "welcome package," which media reports have estimated at 25-30 million euros ($29-35 million). The club did not disclose the proportion of tokens in the package, but said the amount was "significant".

Fan tokens are a type of cryptocurrency that allow holders to vote on mostly minor decisions related to their clubs. Among clubs to launch tokens this year are English Premier League champions Manchester City and Italy's AC Milan.&nbsp;Messi's former club Barcelona launched one last year.

The tokens are increasingly seen by clubs as a source of new revenue and Socios.com, which provide the tokens for PSG and other top clubs, says tokens have generated nearly $200 million for its partner clubs in 2021, with PSG already seeing revenue from the&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;deal.

Like bitcoin and other digital currencies, fan tokens can be traded on exchanges. They also share in common with other cryptocurrencies a tendency for wild price swings, leading some regulators to issue warnings to investors about digital assets.

Still, several high profile business and entertainment figures have backed crypto assets, with Tesla boss Elon Musk, Twitter founder Jack Dorsey and rapper Jay-Z among those to have shown support for bitcoin.

PSG said there had been high volume of trading in its fan tokens after reports that&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;was set to join the club.

Trading volumes exceeded $1.2 billion in the days preceding the arrival of the six-times winner of the Ballon d'Or world's best soccer player award, it said.

"We have been able to engage with a new global audience, creating a significant digital revenue stream," said Marc Armstrong, PSG's chief partnerships officer.

NEW TREND

The price of PSG's fan token rallied this week on rumours of the&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;deal, with new sales generating around 30 million euros and PSG taking an unspecified majority of that amount - at least 15 million euros, a source with knowledge of the matter said. PSG declined to comment.

Fan tokens' price moves can have little connection to on-field performance or results.

PSG's token, which has a market capitalisation of about $52 million, soared over 130% in just five days amid speculation over&nbsp;Messi's arrival to an all-time high of over $60 on Tuesday. They were last down 10% at about $40, according to the CoinMarketCap website.

Alexandre Dreyfus, the CEO of Socios.com, said PSG was benefitting from its token and other clubs could imitate its deal with&nbsp;Messi.

"I believe this could be the start of a new trend as fan tokens and Socios.com play an increasingly prominent role across sport at the very highest level," he said.

PSG have hoovered up domestic titles since their deep-pocketed owners, Qatar Sports Investment, took over in 2011. But they have never won Europe's prestigious and lucrative Champions League.&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;has won it four times, most recently in 2015.

The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost PSG's ambitions and is expected to increase revenues from commercial deals and merchandise sales.

Football star Lionel Messi's signing on fee at Paris St Germain includes some of the French club's cryptocurrency fan tokens, in the latest big name endorsement of new digital assets.

Football star Lionel Messi's signing on fee at Paris St Germain includes some of the French club's cryptocurrency fan tokens, in the latest big name endorsement of new digital assets. ALSO READ: Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures The Argentine, 34, left Spanish side Barcelona and signed a two-year contract with Qatari-owned Paris St Germain (PSG), with an option for a third year, on Tuesday. Confirming an exclusive Reuters report, PSG said on Thursday the tokens were included in his "welcome package," which media reports have estimated at 25-30 million euros ($29-35 million). The club did not disclose the proportion of tokens in the package, but said the amount was "significant". Fan tokens are a type of cryptocurrency that allow holders to vote on mostly minor decisions related to their clubs. Among clubs to launch tokens this year are English Premier League champions Manchester City and Italy's AC Milan. Messi's former club Barcelona launched one last year. The tokens are increasingly seen by clubs as a source of new revenue and Socios.com, which provide the tokens for PSG and other top clubs, says tokens have generated nearly $200 million for its partner clubs in 2021, with PSG already seeing revenue from the Messi deal. Like bitcoin and other digital currencies, fan tokens can be traded on exchanges. They also share in common with other cryptocurrencies a tendency for wild price swings, leading some regulators to issue warnings to investors about digital assets. Still, several high profile business and entertainment figures have backed crypto assets, with Tesla boss Elon Musk, Twitter founder Jack Dorsey and rapper Jay-Z among those to have shown support for bitcoin. PSG said there had been high volume of trading in its fan tokens after reports that Messi was set to join the club. Trading volumes exceeded $1.2 billion in the days preceding the arrival of the six-times winner of the Ballon d'Or world's best soccer player award, it said. "We have been able to engage with a new global audience, creating a significant digital revenue stream," said Marc Armstrong, PSG's chief partnerships officer. NEW TREND The price of PSG's fan token rallied this week on rumours of the Messi deal, with new sales generating around 30 million euros and PSG taking an unspecified majority of that amount - at least 15 million euros, a source with knowledge of the matter said. PSG declined to comment. Fan tokens' price moves can have little connection to on-field performance or results. PSG's token, which has a market capitalisation of about $52 million, soared over 130% in just five days amid speculation over Messi's arrival to an all-time high of over $60 on Tuesday. They were last down 10% at about $40, according to the CoinMarketCap website. Alexandre Dreyfus, the CEO of Socios.com, said PSG was benefitting from its token and other clubs could imitate its deal with Messi. "I believe this could be the start of a new trend as fan tokens and Socios.com play an increasingly prominent role across sport at the very highest level," he said. PSG have hoovered up domestic titles since their deep-pocketed owners, Qatar Sports Investment, took over in 2011. But they have never won Europe's prestigious and lucrative Champions League. Messi has won it four times, most recently in 2015. The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost PSG's ambitions and is expected to increase revenues from commercial deals and merchandise sales.

Football - Lionel Messi joins crypto craze as gets part of PSG fee in fan tokens

For quite a long time they were rivals, however presently Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi are teammates at Paris Saint-Germain, with the former Real Madrid defender inviting the ex-Barcelona player to the French capital.&nbsp;

The two men were captain of their clubs, and both have finished the late spring paperwork done for PSG on free exchanges given they couldn't resolve their particular agreement issues with Real Madrid and Barcelona.&nbsp;

With Lionel Messi's signing being made official on Wednesday, Sergio Ramos took to social media to invite the Argentine to PSG&nbsp;

"Who would have thought it, right Leo?" Sergio Ramos posted on Twitter with a picture of their PSG jerseys. Where curiously, Sergio Ramos' is white, and Lionel Messi's jersey is blue.

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¿Quién nos lo iba a decir, verdad <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LeoMessi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LeoMessi</a>? 
¡Bienvenido! / Welcome! / Bienvenue !<a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_espanol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PSG_espanol</a> <a href="https://t.co/vHcpBY6z08">pic.twitter.com/vHcpBY6z08</a>
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Lionel Messi's transition to PSG was made official after the six-time Ballon d'Or champ was joined by club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi in a press conference. Lionel Messi was given the number 30 jersey which he last wore during his first season with Barcelona.&nbsp;

Barcelona's misfortune was PSG's benefit. The Parisians have at long last rejoined Lionel Messi with his companion Neymar Jr. What's more, the pair, alongside Kylian Mbappé will make PSG's frontline the most threatening front three.

For quite a long time they were rivals, however presently Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi are teammates at Paris Saint-Germain, with the former Real Madrid defender inviting the ex-Barcelona player to the French capital.

For quite a long time they were rivals, however presently Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi are teammates at Paris Saint-Germain, with the former Real Madrid defender inviting the ex-Barcelona player to the French capital. The two men were captain of their clubs, and both have finished the late spring paperwork done for PSG on free exchanges given they couldn't resolve their particular agreement issues with Real Madrid and Barcelona. With Lionel Messi's signing being made official on Wednesday, Sergio Ramos took to social media to invite the Argentine to PSG "Who would have thought it, right Leo?" Sergio Ramos posted on Twitter with a picture of their PSG jerseys. Where curiously, Sergio Ramos' is white, and Lionel Messi's jersey is blue. ¿Quién nos lo iba a decir, verdad #LeoMessi? ¡Bienvenido! / Welcome! / Bienvenue !@PSG_espanol pic.twitter.com/vHcpBY6z08 — Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) August 11, 2021 × Lionel Messi's transition to PSG was made official after the six-time Ballon d'Or champ was joined by club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi in a press conference. Lionel Messi was given the number 30 jersey which he last wore during his first season with Barcelona. Barcelona's misfortune was PSG's benefit. The Parisians have at long last rejoined Lionel Messi with his companion Neymar Jr. What's more, the pair, alongside Kylian Mbappé will make PSG's frontline the most threatening front three.

Football: 'Who would have thought,' Sergio Ramos welcomes Lionel Messi to Paris Saint-Germain

Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures

From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for upcoming season

Lionel Messi Tuesday officially joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona. The football star has signed a two-year contract with the French club with an option of an additional year, PSG announced.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-a-new-adventure-for-all-five-of-us-says-lionel-messis-wife-404477" hreflang="en">Football: 'A new adventure for all five of us,' says Lionel Messi's wife</a>

The 34-year-old forward will play along with&nbsp;former teammate Neymar Jr and French star Kylian Mbappe. However, the Brazilian winger will keep the number 10 Jersey, whereas Lionel Messi will don his old number 30 while playing for the club.&nbsp;

"I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain," he said in a statement on the club's website.

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Paris Saint-Germain is delighted to announce the signing of Leo Messi on a two-year contract with an option of a third year.<a href="https://t.co/D5Qjq7PJfF">https://t.co/D5Qjq7PJfF</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGxMESSI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGxMESSI</a> ❤️💙 <a href="https://t.co/msJAnW01V5">pic.twitter.com/msJAnW01V5</a>
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"Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday, added.

"I know how talented the squad and the coaching staff are here.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/lionel-messi-leaves-barcelona-a-record-breaking-career-in-pictures-psg-403520">Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record-breaking career in pictures</a>

"I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes."

Lionel Messi will be unveiled by PSG at a press conference they have called for 11:00 am (0900 GMT) Wednesday.

Barcelona had to let go of their star after 21 years due to financial issues. They are carrying debts of 1.2 billion euros ($1.41 billion) and cannot register new signings because of their financial problems.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi is among the most expensive footballers due to his stats and Paris Saint-Germain was the only side to have afforded a deal that is said to be around 35 million euros ($41 million) a year.

Messi, who came to Barcelona as a boy from Rosario and has left them as a six-time Ballon D'Or winner, has scored 672 goals in 778 appearances for the Spanish Club.

Lionel Messi Tuesday officially joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona. The football star has signed a two-year contract with the French club with an option of an additional year, PSG announced.

Lionel Messi Tuesday officially joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona. The football star has signed a two-year contract with the French club with an option of an additional year, PSG announced. ALSO READ: Football: 'A new adventure for all five of us,' says Lionel Messi's wife The 34-year-old forward will play along with former teammate Neymar Jr and French star Kylian Mbappe. However, the Brazilian winger will keep the number 10 Jersey, whereas Lionel Messi will don his old number 30 while playing for the club. "I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain," he said in a statement on the club's website. Paris Saint-Germain is delighted to announce the signing of Leo Messi on a two-year contract with an option of a third year.https://t.co/D5Qjq7PJfF#PSGxMESSI ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/msJAnW01V5 — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) August 10, 2021 × "Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday, added. "I know how talented the squad and the coaching staff are here. IN PICS| Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record-breaking career in pictures "I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes." Lionel Messi will be unveiled by PSG at a press conference they have called for 11:00 am (0900 GMT) Wednesday. Barcelona had to let go of their star after 21 years due to financial issues. They are carrying debts of 1.2 billion euros ($1.41 billion) and cannot register new signings because of their financial problems. Lionel Messi is among the most expensive footballers due to his stats and Paris Saint-Germain was the only side to have afforded a deal that is said to be around 35 million euros ($41 million) a year. Messi, who came to Barcelona as a boy from Rosario and has left them as a six-time Ballon D'Or winner, has scored 672 goals in 778 appearances for the Spanish Club.

Football: Lionel Messi joins Paris-Saint Germain, signs two-year contract with club

Lionel Messi says that he is 'extremely happy' after joining PSG,&nbsp;and 'dreams of Champions League win' with them.

This is Messi's first press conference after joining&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain.&nbsp;The football star has signed a two-year contract with the French club with an option of an additional year.&nbsp;

Before this, the Argentine footballer&nbsp;was associated with&nbsp;Barcelona for more than 20 years. 
 
(More to follow)

&nbsp;

Lionel Messi says that he is 'extremely happy' after joining PSG, and 'dreams of Champions League win' with them. This is Messi's first press conference after joining Paris Saint-Germain.

Lionel Messi says that he is 'extremely happy' after joining PSG, and 'dreams of Champions League win' with them. This is Messi's first press conference after joining Paris Saint-Germain. The football star has signed a two-year contract with the French club with an option of an additional year. Before this, the Argentine footballer was associated with Barcelona for more than 20 years. (More to follow)

Lionel Messi's first press conference with PSG: 'Dreams of Champions League win' with them

Lionel&nbsp;Messi said on Wednesday that he is&nbsp;'extremely happy' after joining&nbsp;star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team.

The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year.

"Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said&nbsp;Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday.

"I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes."

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The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe.

In pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-lionel-messi-to-sergio-ramos-paris-saint-germain-fifa-like-playing-xi-for-upcoming-ligue-1-season-404576" hreflang="en">From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for upcoming season</a>

The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time.

Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;as a player for the French soccer powerhouse.

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🎙 President Nasser Al-Khelaïfi: “I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain and we are proud to welcome him to Paris, with his family. "<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGxMESSI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGxMESSI</a> <a href="https://t.co/RXclKJMoE8">https://t.co/RXclKJMoE8</a>
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"He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference.

French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally".

PSG wasted little time in targeting&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules.

Crowds of supporters thronged to the club's Parc des Princes stadium, chanting and setting off smoke flares.

Neymar and Mbappe were already the two most expensive soccer players in history, and the addition of&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;to Mauricio Pochettino's PSG line-up could rival the unstoppable triumvirate that he formed at Barcelona with Neymar and Luis Suarez.

Messi&nbsp;will wear the number 30 shirt, the club confirmed in a video posted on its Twitter feed, headlined "a new diamond in Paris".

Messi, who won four Champions Leagues and 10 domestic league titles with Barcelona, joins several other big names arriving at PSG on a free transfer this summer.

Spain defender Sergio Ramos was no longer wanted at Real Madrid, Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum had run down his contract with Liverpool and Italy's Euro 2020-winning goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma also joined after his contract with AC Milan ran out.

The arrival of&nbsp;Messi, whose last contract with Barcelona was worth a total of 555 million euros ($650 million) and reported to be the most lucrative in world sport, is also set to provoke a renewed new debate about UEFA's financial fair play rules.

Soccer's European governing body introduced the rules in 2009 in an attempt to restrict the power of free-spending owners to buy success, but their success is debatable.

The star-power of&nbsp;Messi, who has 245 million followers on Instagram, will be welcome news for Ligue 1 as a battle rages between broadcasters over the price of its television rights, crucial to the finances of the clubs.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lionel Messi said on Wednesday that he is 'extremely happy' after joining star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team.

Lionel Messi said on Wednesday that he is 'extremely happy' after joining star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year. "Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday. "I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paris Saint-Germain (@psg) The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe. In pics | From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for upcoming season The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time. Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel Messi as a player for the French soccer powerhouse. 🎙 President Nasser Al-Khelaïfi: “I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain and we are proud to welcome him to Paris, with his family. "#PSGxMESSI https://t.co/RXclKJMoE8 — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) August 11, 2021 × "He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference. French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally". PSG wasted little time in targeting Messi after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules. Crowds of supporters thronged to the club's Parc des Princes stadium, chanting and setting off smoke flares. Neymar and Mbappe were already the two most expensive soccer players in history, and the addition of Messi to Mauricio Pochettino's PSG line-up could rival the unstoppable triumvirate that he formed at Barcelona with Neymar and Luis Suarez. Messi will wear the number 30 shirt, the club confirmed in a video posted on its Twitter feed, headlined "a new diamond in Paris". Messi, who won four Champions Leagues and 10 domestic league titles with Barcelona, joins several other big names arriving at PSG on a free transfer this summer. Spain defender Sergio Ramos was no longer wanted at Real Madrid, Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum had run down his contract with Liverpool and Italy's Euro 2020-winning goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma also joined after his contract with AC Milan ran out. The arrival of Messi, whose last contract with Barcelona was worth a total of 555 million euros ($650 million) and reported to be the most lucrative in world sport, is also set to provoke a renewed new debate about UEFA's financial fair play rules. Soccer's European governing body introduced the rules in 2009 in an attempt to restrict the power of free-spending owners to buy success, but their success is debatable. The star-power of Messi, who has 245 million followers on Instagram, will be welcome news for Ligue 1 as a battle rages between broadcasters over the price of its television rights, crucial to the finances of the clubs. (With inputs from agencies)

Lionel Messi 'extremely happy' after joining PSG, dreams of Champions League win

Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo keep on ruling the features. The Argentine finished a free exchange to Paris Saint-Germain today. Following that, Lille player Jose Fonte has uncovered that he's been welcoming Cristiano Ronaldo to shift to Ligue 1 also and go along with him at the Stade Pierre Mauroy.&nbsp;

“I feel great because it’s incredible to hear a player like Lionel Messi is in French football in our league. It’s exciting. Obviously, in terms of competitors, it’s going to be even harder for us but we’re up for a challenge – I’m texting Cristiano to come to Lille every day! He’s only replied ‘ha ha ha’,” he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-lionel-messi-joins-paris-saint-germain-signs-two-year-contract-with-club-404557" hreflang="en">Football: Lionel Messi joins Paris-Saint Germain, signs two-year contract with club</a>

"Imagine if we keep a clean sheet against them! It will just value us even more even if we do it," he added.

"Incredible front three. Are they going to defend? I don't know. It will be interesting to see the competitiveness of the league this year."

Jose Fonte and Cristiano Ronaldo have a decent relationship. The pair share the dressing room in the Portuguese national group and were both chosen to represent their country at the European Championships.&nbsp;

Portugal came to the Round of 16 in the competition with Cristiano Ronaldo winding up as the top scorer of the competition with five goals and one assist.&nbsp;

In the interim, Lionel Messi has been announced as a Paris Saint-Germain player in a noteworthy free exchange.

The Argentine has marked a two-year manage the French goliaths that will see him pocket an incredible €35 million net for every annum. Lionel Messi will connect up with Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappe in PSG's assault for the impending season.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo keep on ruling the features. The Argentine finished a free exchange to Paris Saint-Germain today. Following that, Lille player Jose Fonte has uncovered that he's been welcoming Cristiano Ronaldo to shift to Ligue 1 also and go along with him at the Stade Pierre Mauroy.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo keep on ruling the features. The Argentine finished a free exchange to Paris Saint-Germain today. Following that, Lille player Jose Fonte has uncovered that he's been welcoming Cristiano Ronaldo to shift to Ligue 1 also and go along with him at the Stade Pierre Mauroy. “I feel great because it’s incredible to hear a player like Lionel Messi is in French football in our league. It’s exciting. Obviously, in terms of competitors, it’s going to be even harder for us but we’re up for a challenge – I’m texting Cristiano to come to Lille every day! He’s only replied ‘ha ha ha’,” he said. ALSO READ: Football: Lionel Messi joins Paris-Saint Germain, signs two-year contract with club "Imagine if we keep a clean sheet against them! It will just value us even more even if we do it," he added. "Incredible front three. Are they going to defend? I don't know. It will be interesting to see the competitiveness of the league this year." Jose Fonte and Cristiano Ronaldo have a decent relationship. The pair share the dressing room in the Portuguese national group and were both chosen to represent their country at the European Championships. Portugal came to the Round of 16 in the competition with Cristiano Ronaldo winding up as the top scorer of the competition with five goals and one assist. In the interim, Lionel Messi has been announced as a Paris Saint-Germain player in a noteworthy free exchange. The Argentine has marked a two-year manage the French goliaths that will see him pocket an incredible €35 million net for every annum. Lionel Messi will connect up with Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappe in PSG's assault for the impending season.

Football: Cristiano Ronaldo responds to Ligue 1 player asking him to join Lionel Messi in France

Lionel&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;said he wants to "build something special" at Paris Saint-Germain before being unveiled as a Parisian player on Wednesday.

The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year.

Messi, who will wear the number 30 in Paris, the number he had when he began his professional career at Barca, will be unveiled by PSG at a press conference at 11:00 am (0900 GMT) on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messis-unveiling-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-lionel-messis-first-press-conference-as-psg-player-404607" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi's unveiling, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Lionel Messi's first press conference&nbsp;as PSG player?</a>

"I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain," he said in a statement on the club's website.

"Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said&nbsp;Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday.

"I know how talented the squad and the coaching staff are here.&nbsp;

"I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes."

French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally".

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-lionel-messi-to-sergio-ramos-paris-saint-germain-fifa-like-playing-xi-for-upcoming-ligue-1-season-404576" hreflang="en">From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for the upcoming season</a>

"The arrival of Lionel&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;will increase the attractiveness and visibility of our league on all continents," he said on Wednesday, praising PSG's leadership.

Messi, who was a free agent after his shock departure from boyhood club Barcelona last week, landed at Le Bourget airport in the north of Paris on Tuesday afternoon.

He was greeted by hundreds of PSG supporters who had gathered hoping to catch a glimpse of their new signing.

Fans also gathered outside the club's Parc des Princes home and near a plush hotel in the city where&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;along with wife Antonella and their three children are expected to be staying.

Messi&nbsp;waved to crowds while sporting a Paris T-shirt on his arrival at the airport before being taken for his medical.

The completion of his move closes a whirlwind few days following the announcement last Thursday that he would leave Barcelona, the club he has represented for the entirety of his 17-year professional career.

PSG's move for&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;had been an open secret for days, although reports in Spain on Monday night talked of a "final offer" by Barcelona to try to keep the player.

Instead,&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;will join a PSG attack already featuring Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

Qatar-backed PSG see&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;as the missing piece in their jigsaw as they chase the Champions League, the trophy they want more than anything else.

"Back together," Neymar, who played with&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;at Barcelona before moving to PSG in 2017, posted on Twitter.

Barcelona are still coming to terms with the departure of their greatest ever player, who said goodbye to his club of two decades at a tearful news conference on Sunday.

Despite offering to cut his salary by half to seal a new five-year contract with the Catalans, the deal foundered on Spanish league salary cap rules.

Barcelona, carrying debts of 1.2 billion euros ($1.4 billion), are unable to register new signings because of their financial predicament.

With Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City having ruled themselves out, PSG were about the only club that could afford what is expected to be a deal worth 35 million euros a year.

He leaves Barcelona with 672 goals in 778 appearances, a record tally for one club.

Messi&nbsp;won 35 trophies at the Camp Nou after joining Barca aged 13, but his last appearance was a damp squib: a 2-1 home defeat behind closed doors against Celta Vigo in May.

His trophy haul includes four Champions Leagues and 10 La Liga titles.

"Firstly, I'm a little sad for him. He wanted to stay at Barcelona," former teammate Cesc Fabregas said late on Tuesday.

"I'm from Barcelona and you know it's going to be difficult to watch Barca without Leo."

This summer, PSG have already added veteran Spanish defender Sergio Ramos from Real Madrid and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, the star of Euro 2020.

They have also signed Georginio Wijnaldum from Liverpool, snatching the Netherlands' midfielder from under the noses of Barcelona, and spent 60 million euros on Inter Milan right-back Achraf Hakimi, who scored on his PSG league debut at the weekend.

Messi&nbsp;could be unveiled to supporters on Saturday, when PSG host Strasbourg and a full house of nearly 48,000 will be allowed in for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic struck 18 months ago.

However, he is unlikely to make his debut until later this month at the earliest.

Lionel Messi said he wants to "build something special" at Paris Saint-Germain before being unveiled as a Parisian player on Wednesday. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year.

Lionel Messi said he wants to "build something special" at Paris Saint-Germain before being unveiled as a Parisian player on Wednesday. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year. Messi, who will wear the number 30 in Paris, the number he had when he began his professional career at Barca, will be unveiled by PSG at a press conference at 11:00 am (0900 GMT) on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi's unveiling, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Lionel Messi's first press conference as PSG player? "I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain," he said in a statement on the club's website. "Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday. "I know how talented the squad and the coaching staff are here. "I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes." French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally". IN PICS| From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for the upcoming season "The arrival of Lionel Messi will increase the attractiveness and visibility of our league on all continents," he said on Wednesday, praising PSG's leadership. Messi, who was a free agent after his shock departure from boyhood club Barcelona last week, landed at Le Bourget airport in the north of Paris on Tuesday afternoon. He was greeted by hundreds of PSG supporters who had gathered hoping to catch a glimpse of their new signing. Fans also gathered outside the club's Parc des Princes home and near a plush hotel in the city where Messi along with wife Antonella and their three children are expected to be staying. Messi waved to crowds while sporting a Paris T-shirt on his arrival at the airport before being taken for his medical. The completion of his move closes a whirlwind few days following the announcement last Thursday that he would leave Barcelona, the club he has represented for the entirety of his 17-year professional career. PSG's move for Messi had been an open secret for days, although reports in Spain on Monday night talked of a "final offer" by Barcelona to try to keep the player. Instead, Messi will join a PSG attack already featuring Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. Qatar-backed PSG see Messi as the missing piece in their jigsaw as they chase the Champions League, the trophy they want more than anything else. "Back together," Neymar, who played with Messi at Barcelona before moving to PSG in 2017, posted on Twitter. Barcelona are still coming to terms with the departure of their greatest ever player, who said goodbye to his club of two decades at a tearful news conference on Sunday. Despite offering to cut his salary by half to seal a new five-year contract with the Catalans, the deal foundered on Spanish league salary cap rules. Barcelona, carrying debts of 1.2 billion euros ($1.4 billion), are unable to register new signings because of their financial predicament. With Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City having ruled themselves out, PSG were about the only club that could afford what is expected to be a deal worth 35 million euros a year. He leaves Barcelona with 672 goals in 778 appearances, a record tally for one club. Messi won 35 trophies at the Camp Nou after joining Barca aged 13, but his last appearance was a damp squib: a 2-1 home defeat behind closed doors against Celta Vigo in May. His trophy haul includes four Champions Leagues and 10 La Liga titles. "Firstly, I'm a little sad for him. He wanted to stay at Barcelona," former teammate Cesc Fabregas said late on Tuesday. "I'm from Barcelona and you know it's going to be difficult to watch Barca without Leo." This summer, PSG have already added veteran Spanish defender Sergio Ramos from Real Madrid and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, the star of Euro 2020. They have also signed Georginio Wijnaldum from Liverpool, snatching the Netherlands' midfielder from under the noses of Barcelona, and spent 60 million euros on Inter Milan right-back Achraf Hakimi, who scored on his PSG league debut at the weekend. Messi could be unveiled to supporters on Saturday, when PSG host Strasbourg and a full house of nearly 48,000 will be allowed in for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic struck 18 months ago. However, he is unlikely to make his debut until later this month at the earliest.

Football - Lionel Messi eyes 'something special' at PSG before presentation

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-agrees-to-join-paris-saint-germain-after-leaving-barcelona-reports-404434">Lionel&nbsp;Messi</a>&nbsp;landed in Paris on Tuesday with the 34-year-old Argentinian superstar set to sign a deal with Paris Saint-Germain following his departure from boyhood club Barcelona.

Messi&nbsp;arrived at Le Bourget airport to the north of the French capital around 3:30 pm (1330 GMT) and was greeted by hundreds of PSG supporters who had gathered hoping to catch a glimpse of their new signing.

Messi, who waved to the crowds while sporting a Paris t-shirt, was then expected to undergo a medical before his signing could be made official by the Qatar-backed club.

Messi's father Jorge, who is also his agent, earlier confirmed the inevitable as he arrived at Barcelona's El Prat airport to board a flight to France.

Asked by reporters if his son would sign for the French club, he replied: "Yes".&nbsp;

PSG are set to unveil&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;at a press conference at their Parc des Princes stadium on Wednesday.

He is expected to sign an initial two-year deal, and the completion of his move will close a whirlwind few days following the announcement last Thursday that he would leave Barcelona, the club he has represented for the entirety of his 17-year professional career.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/lionel-messi-leaves-barcelona-a-record-breaking-career-in-pictures-psg-403520">Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures</a>

Watch the video:

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Lionel Messi arrives at the Paris Airport. <a href="https://t.co/XO70Dxqya9">pic.twitter.com/XO70Dxqya9</a>
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PSG's move for&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;had been an open secret for days, although reports in Spain on Monday night talked of a "final offer" by Barcelona to try to keep the player.

Instead, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner will join a PSG attack already featuring Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

PSG see&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;as the missing piece in their jigsaw as they chase the Champions League, the trophy they want more than anything else.

"Back together," Neymar, who played with&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;at Barcelona before moving to PSG in 2017, posted on Twitter.

Coming to terms

Barcelona are still coming to terms with the departure of their greatest ever player, who said goodbye to his club of two decades at a tearful news conference on Sunday.

Despite offering to cut his salary by half to seal a new five-year contract with Barcelona, the deal foundered on Spanish league salary cap rules.

Barcelona, carrying debts of 1.2 billion euros ($1.41 billion), are unable to register new signings because of their financial predicament.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-a-new-adventure-for-all-five-of-us-says-lionel-messis-wife-404477">'A new adventure for all five of us,' says Lionel Messi's wife</a>

With Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City having ruled themselves out, PSG were about the only club who could afford what is expected to be a deal worth 35 million euros ($41 million) a year.

"I gave everything for Barcelona from the first day that I arrived right to the last. I never imagined having to say goodbye,"&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;said on Sunday.

"I have still not&nbsp;come to terms with the reality of leaving this club now -- I love this club."

He leaves Barcelona with 672 goals in 778 appearances, a record tally for one club.

Messi&nbsp;won 35 trophies at the Camp Nou after joining Barca aged 13, but his last appearance was a damp squib: a 2-1 home defeat behind closed doors against Celta Vigo in May.

His trophy haul includes four Champions Leagues and 10 La Liga titles.

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/football-only-one-lionel-messi-turns-out-theres-quite-a-few-404456">Football: Only one Lionel Messi? Turns out, there's quite a few</a>

"It will be difficult to see him in another shirt than that of Barca,"&nbsp;Messi's old Barcelona team-mate Andres Iniesta, now playing in Japan, told AFP in an interview on Tuesday.

"As a player he just transcended everything. I've not seen a player like him -- and I don't think I ever will. You look at what he did and for so long..."

'Extraordinary for Ligue 1'

Messi, who flew in to Paris with his wife and three children, is now preparing for a new life in Paris and in Ligue 1.

His arrival makes PSG even more obvious favourites to reclaim a French title they missed out on last season to Lille.

Some in Ligue 1 have mixed feelings about the impending arrival of arguably the greatest player of all time.

"It's extraordinary for Ligue 1," said Metz coach Frederic Antonetti.

"But for a purist like me,&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;should have finished his career at Barcelona."

This summer PSG have already added veteran Spanish defender Sergio Ramos from Real Madrid and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, the star of Euro 2020.

They have also signed Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, snatching the Dutchman from under the noses of Barcelona, and spent 60 million euros on Inter Milan right-back Achraf Hakimi, who scored on his PSG league debut at the weekend.

An added attraction in moving to Paris is that coach Mauricio Pochettino, like&nbsp;Messi, started his career at Newell's Old Boys in Rosario, Argentina.

Messi&nbsp;could be unveiled to supporters on Saturday, when PSG host Strasbourg and a full house of nearly 48,000 will be allowed in for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic struck 18 months ago.

Lionel Messi landed in Paris on Tuesday with the 34-year-old Argentinian superstar set to sign a deal with Paris Saint-Germain following his departure from boyhood club Barcelona.

Lionel Messi landed in Paris on Tuesday with the 34-year-old Argentinian superstar set to sign a deal with Paris Saint-Germain following his departure from boyhood club Barcelona. Messi arrived at Le Bourget airport to the north of the French capital around 3:30 pm (1330 GMT) and was greeted by hundreds of PSG supporters who had gathered hoping to catch a glimpse of their new signing. Messi, who waved to the crowds while sporting a Paris t-shirt, was then expected to undergo a medical before his signing could be made official by the Qatar-backed club. Messi's father Jorge, who is also his agent, earlier confirmed the inevitable as he arrived at Barcelona's El Prat airport to board a flight to France. Asked by reporters if his son would sign for the French club, he replied: "Yes". PSG are set to unveil Messi at a press conference at their Parc des Princes stadium on Wednesday. He is expected to sign an initial two-year deal, and the completion of his move will close a whirlwind few days following the announcement last Thursday that he would leave Barcelona, the club he has represented for the entirety of his 17-year professional career. IN PICS | Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures Watch the video: Lionel Messi arrives at the Paris Airport. pic.twitter.com/XO70Dxqya9 — Sahara Football (@SaharaFootball) August 10, 2021 × PSG's move for Messi had been an open secret for days, although reports in Spain on Monday night talked of a "final offer" by Barcelona to try to keep the player. Instead, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner will join a PSG attack already featuring Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. PSG see Messi as the missing piece in their jigsaw as they chase the Champions League, the trophy they want more than anything else. "Back together," Neymar, who played with Messi at Barcelona before moving to PSG in 2017, posted on Twitter. Coming to terms Barcelona are still coming to terms with the departure of their greatest ever player, who said goodbye to his club of two decades at a tearful news conference on Sunday. Despite offering to cut his salary by half to seal a new five-year contract with Barcelona, the deal foundered on Spanish league salary cap rules. Barcelona, carrying debts of 1.2 billion euros ($1.41 billion), are unable to register new signings because of their financial predicament. ALSO READ | 'A new adventure for all five of us,' says Lionel Messi's wife With Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City having ruled themselves out, PSG were about the only club who could afford what is expected to be a deal worth 35 million euros ($41 million) a year. "I gave everything for Barcelona from the first day that I arrived right to the last. I never imagined having to say goodbye," Messi said on Sunday. "I have still not come to terms with the reality of leaving this club now -- I love this club." He leaves Barcelona with 672 goals in 778 appearances, a record tally for one club. Messi won 35 trophies at the Camp Nou after joining Barca aged 13, but his last appearance was a damp squib: a 2-1 home defeat behind closed doors against Celta Vigo in May. His trophy haul includes four Champions Leagues and 10 La Liga titles. IN PICS | Football: Only one Lionel Messi? Turns out, there's quite a few "It will be difficult to see him in another shirt than that of Barca," Messi's old Barcelona team-mate Andres Iniesta, now playing in Japan, told AFP in an interview on Tuesday. "As a player he just transcended everything. I've not seen a player like him -- and I don't think I ever will. You look at what he did and for so long..." 'Extraordinary for Ligue 1' Messi, who flew in to Paris with his wife and three children, is now preparing for a new life in Paris and in Ligue 1. His arrival makes PSG even more obvious favourites to reclaim a French title they missed out on last season to Lille. Some in Ligue 1 have mixed feelings about the impending arrival of arguably the greatest player of all time. "It's extraordinary for Ligue 1," said Metz coach Frederic Antonetti. "But for a purist like me, Messi should have finished his career at Barcelona." This summer PSG have already added veteran Spanish defender Sergio Ramos from Real Madrid and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, the star of Euro 2020. They have also signed Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, snatching the Dutchman from under the noses of Barcelona, and spent 60 million euros on Inter Milan right-back Achraf Hakimi, who scored on his PSG league debut at the weekend. An added attraction in moving to Paris is that coach Mauricio Pochettino, like Messi, started his career at Newell's Old Boys in Rosario, Argentina. Messi could be unveiled to supporters on Saturday, when PSG host Strasbourg and a full house of nearly 48,000 will be allowed in for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic struck 18 months ago.

Football: Lionel Messi arrives in Paris to complete Paris Saint-Germain move - watch

A photograph of Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, was posted on Roccuzzo's Instagram account on Tuesday (August 10), showing the couple seated in their private jet en route to Paris.

The caption attached to the photograph read "a new adventure for all five of us."
<img alt="Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b9e1b56b-b5ad-4705-b7ec-7dfd2772623f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture044.PNG" />
Messi has agreed to join French club Paris Saint Germain (PSG) following his abrupt departure from Barcelona, his father said on Tuesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-city-defender-john-stones-pens-new-deal-until-2026-404459" hreflang="en">Football: Manchester City defender John Stones pens new deal until 2026</a>

Messi established himself as one of the greatest footballers of all time during a glittering, trophy-laden career at Barcelona, the club he joined as a schoolboy.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner, wept on Sunday (August 8) as he bade farewell to his boyhood team after the club said it could no longer afford to keep him because of La Liga's fair play rules.

The 34-year-old made his debut for Barcelona in 2003, scoring 672 goals in 778 appearances for the first team.

Messi is the latest big-name arrival at PSG on a free transfer this summer.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino's side snapped up Spanish defender Sergio Ramos after he left Barcelona's arch-rivals, Real Madrid.

A photograph of Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, was posted on Roccuzzo's Instagram account on Tuesday (August 10), showing the couple seated in their private jet en route to Paris.

A photograph of Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, was posted on Roccuzzo's Instagram account on Tuesday (August 10), showing the couple seated in their private jet en route to Paris. The caption attached to the photograph read "a new adventure for all five of us." Messi has agreed to join French club Paris Saint Germain (PSG) following his abrupt departure from Barcelona, his father said on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Football: Manchester City defender John Stones pens new deal until 2026 Messi established himself as one of the greatest footballers of all time during a glittering, trophy-laden career at Barcelona, the club he joined as a schoolboy. The six-time Ballon d'Or winner, wept on Sunday (August 8) as he bade farewell to his boyhood team after the club said it could no longer afford to keep him because of La Liga's fair play rules. The 34-year-old made his debut for Barcelona in 2003, scoring 672 goals in 778 appearances for the first team. Messi is the latest big-name arrival at PSG on a free transfer this summer. Coach Mauricio Pochettino's side snapped up Spanish defender Sergio Ramos after he left Barcelona's arch-rivals, Real Madrid.

Football: 'A new adventure for all five of us,' says Lionel Messi's wife

As Lionel Messi bid farewell to Barcelona and is all set to join French football club Paris Saint Germain (PSG), his picture from the mural on Camp Nou stadium was removed by workers on Tuesday (August 10).

As Lionel Messi bid farewell to Barcelona and is all set to join French football club Paris Saint Germain (PSG), his picture from the mural on Camp Nou stadium was removed by workers on Tuesday (August 10). A few fans shared images and videos of the same on social media. Messi addressed a press conference to confirm his departure from Barcelona, a club he joined aged 13 and to say goodbye to his friends and teammates. He was the club's all-time top scorer and appearance maker with 672 goals in 778 games in all competitions. He has created several records while playing alongside greats like Xavi and Carles Puyol at the beginning of his career. See pics here: This escalated quickly: FC Barcelona is taking down a mural of Lionel Messi at the Nou Camp. pic.twitter.com/P3VNtps4BM — Sean Jacobs (@_SeanJacobs) August 10, 2021 × El Camp Nou comienza a despedirse de Lionel Messi El estadio de Barcelona ya no tendrá la imagen del argentino y el emblemático mural patrocinado por Rakuten tendrá un nuevo diseñohttps://t.co/kEDn7M6qeY#Messi #CampNou pic.twitter.com/c54s1DzLel — Marca En Zona (@MarcaEnZona) August 10, 2021 × 📸 | Messi's mural has been removed from Camp Nou 💔 pic.twitter.com/Uc7s2NrCwL — TM (@TotalLeoMessi) August 10, 2021 × IN PICS | Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures As Messi left Barcelona due to "financial and structural obstacles" to the renewal of the deal, he will begin a new chapter of his career in Paris. During the conference, Messi said he had agreed to a 50% pay cut in order to stay at Barca and sign a new contract but was unable to finalise the deal due to the Spanish league's financial control rules and the club's debts, which total more than 1 billion euros ($1.2 billion). Struggling to hold his tears, Messi said, "In recent days I have been thinking about what I could say and the truth is that I cant think of anything, This is really difficult for me after so many years. I am not ready with this," he said. "Since I was 13 I am here. I am really grateful for everything. My teammates, the former players, this club, So many beautiful things have happened in this club and have made me the person I am today," he added.

Lionel Messi's photo removed from Camp Nou mural - see pics

Lionel Messi has reached an agreement with Paris Saint Germain (PSG) over a transfer to the French football&nbsp;club and&nbsp;he is due to arrive in Paris in the coming hours, media reports said on Tuesday.

As per the reports, Messi's&nbsp;father and manager Jorge Messi has confirmed that Leo is "going to sign" the agreement with Paris Saint-Germain. The reports have also added that Messi's camp is working "directly with the French club" to plan for a press conference and official unveiling on Wednesday.

Messi, the 34-year-old record goalscorer for both Argentina and Barcelona, is one of the greatest players of all time.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner wept on Sunday as he bade farewell to his boyhood team, after the club said it could no longer afford to keep him, blaming La Liga's fair play rules.

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/lionel-messi-leaves-barcelona-a-record-breaking-career-in-pictures-psg-403520">Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures</a>

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Lionel Messi joins PSG... HERE WE GO! Total agreement completed on a two-years contract. Option to extend until June 2024. Salary around €35m net per season add ons included. 🇦🇷🇫🇷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> 
 
Messi has definitely accepted PSG contract proposal and will be in Paris in the next hours. <a href="https://t.co/DiM5jNzxTA">pic.twitter.com/DiM5jNzxTA</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1425034569368195084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The PSG frontline is already formidable, with Messi's former Barca team mate Neymar and young France striker Kylian Mbappe seen as two of the best players on the planet.

But the arrival of Messi, Barca's all-time record goalscorer with 682 in 27 years, will boost the club's ambitions to win its first ever Champions League.

Lionel Messi has reached an agreement with Paris Saint Germain (PSG) over a transfer to the French football club and he is due to arrive in Paris in the coming hours, media reports said on Tuesday.

Lionel Messi has reached an agreement with Paris Saint Germain (PSG) over a transfer to the French football club and he is due to arrive in Paris in the coming hours, media reports said on Tuesday. As per the reports, Messi's father and manager Jorge Messi has confirmed that Leo is "going to sign" the agreement with Paris Saint-Germain. The reports have also added that Messi's camp is working "directly with the French club" to plan for a press conference and official unveiling on Wednesday. Messi, the 34-year-old record goalscorer for both Argentina and Barcelona, is one of the greatest players of all time. The six-time Ballon d'Or winner wept on Sunday as he bade farewell to his boyhood team, after the club said it could no longer afford to keep him, blaming La Liga's fair play rules. IN PICS | Lionel Messi leaves Barcelona: A record breaking career in pictures Lionel Messi joins PSG... HERE WE GO! Total agreement completed on a two-years contract. Option to extend until June 2024. Salary around €35m net per season add ons included. 🇦🇷🇫🇷 #Messi Messi has definitely accepted PSG contract proposal and will be in Paris in the next hours. pic.twitter.com/DiM5jNzxTA — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 10, 2021 × The PSG frontline is already formidable, with Messi's former Barca team mate Neymar and young France striker Kylian Mbappe seen as two of the best players on the planet. But the arrival of Messi, Barca's all-time record goalscorer with 682 in 27 years, will boost the club's ambitions to win its first ever Champions League.

Lionel Messi 'agrees to join Paris Saint-Germain' after leaving Barcelona: Reports

Football: Only one Lionel Messi? Turns out, there's quite a few

Paris St Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma says he is excited at the prospect of playing alongside Lionel Messi next season after Barcelona announced that the Argentina great’s contract would not be renewed.

Messi bade a tearful farewell to the Spanish club where he has spent his entire career on Sunday and confirmed that he was in talks with PSG about a possible move.

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The 34-year-old would be the biggest capture yet of an eye-catching transfer window where PSG have already signed Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Sergio Ramos, and Georginio Wijnaldum.

“I am happy if he comes to Paris,” Euro 2020 Player of the Tournament Donnarumma told Sky Italia.

“He is the best player in the world, I am excited and happy at the thought of having him in the team.”

Mauricio Pochettino’s side began their bid to reclaim the Ligue 1 title from Lille with a 2-1 win at Troyes on Saturday.

Paris St Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma says he is excited at the prospect of playing alongside Lionel Messi next season after Barcelona announced that the Argentina great’s contract would not be renewed.

Paris St Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma says he is excited at the prospect of playing alongside Lionel Messi next season after Barcelona announced that the Argentina great’s contract would not be renewed. Messi bade a tearful farewell to the Spanish club where he has spent his entire career on Sunday and confirmed that he was in talks with PSG about a possible move. ALSO READ: Football: Liverpool defender Andy Robertson out with ligament damage The 34-year-old would be the biggest capture yet of an eye-catching transfer window where PSG have already signed Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Sergio Ramos, and Georginio Wijnaldum. “I am happy if he comes to Paris,” Euro 2020 Player of the Tournament Donnarumma told Sky Italia. “He is the best player in the world, I am excited and happy at the thought of having him in the team.” Mauricio Pochettino’s side began their bid to reclaim the Ligue 1 title from Lille with a 2-1 win at Troyes on Saturday.

Football: Gianluigi Donnarumma thrilled at prospect of Lionel Messi joining him at PSG

Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing &nbsp;Barcelona.&nbsp;

The 25-year-old midfielder joined Manchester City last week for £100m in the greatest monetary deal in English football history, leaving the club where he had spent his whole profession.&nbsp;

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"It was so tough. I think everyone knows that," said Jack Grealish to a media outlet.

"I reported back for the pre-season as I was meant to. That's when the manager wanted me back so I obviously went back for a few days. It was obviously difficult because in the back of my head, I knew that I might be going."

"Everyone's seen the way Messi was at his final press conference and that is the exact way I felt myself.

"Before I left, at the hotel, I spoke to the team, the staff, and the players and I teared up a little bit myself."

Jack Grealish joined Manchester City on a six-year deal after the Premier League champions actuated the £100m provision in his Villa contract.&nbsp;

The exchange expense broke the past record in English football held by Paul Pogba when he rejoined Manchester United for £93.25m from Juventus in 2016.&nbsp;

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Jack Grealish, who was skipper at Aston Villa and left the club having scored 32 goals in 213 appearances, made his first appearance for Manchester City in Saturday's Community Shield loss to Leicester at Wembley.&nbsp;

Dissimilar to at Aston Villa, Grealish will confront extraordinary contest for a beginning spot at Manchester City, however, he is sure he can give various characteristics to any semblance of Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil Foden

Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing Barcelona.

Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing Barcelona. The 25-year-old midfielder joined Manchester City last week for £100m in the greatest monetary deal in English football history, leaving the club where he had spent his whole profession. ALSO READ: Football: US forward Josh Sargent joins Norwich from Werder Bremen "It was so tough. I think everyone knows that," said Jack Grealish to a media outlet. "I reported back for the pre-season as I was meant to. That's when the manager wanted me back so I obviously went back for a few days. It was obviously difficult because in the back of my head, I knew that I might be going." "Everyone's seen the way Messi was at his final press conference and that is the exact way I felt myself. "Before I left, at the hotel, I spoke to the team, the staff, and the players and I teared up a little bit myself." Jack Grealish joined Manchester City on a six-year deal after the Premier League champions actuated the £100m provision in his Villa contract. The exchange expense broke the past record in English football held by Paul Pogba when he rejoined Manchester United for £93.25m from Juventus in 2016. ALSO READ: Football: More problems for Barcelona as Sergio Aguero ruled out for 10 weeks Jack Grealish, who was skipper at Aston Villa and left the club having scored 32 goals in 213 appearances, made his first appearance for Manchester City in Saturday's Community Shield loss to Leicester at Wembley. Dissimilar to at Aston Villa, Grealish will confront extraordinary contest for a beginning spot at Manchester City, however, he is sure he can give various characteristics to any semblance of Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil Foden

Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa

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