Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2.

However, Messi has returned to France from Argentina following his negative test and will also resume training with&nbsp;his PSG squad members in the next few days.&nbsp;<iframe aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="8" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/Indiatoday_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/Indiatoday_Teads_1x1_0" role="region" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>He had spent the Christmas break in Argentina with his family members, however,&nbsp;his return to France got&nbsp;delayed due to a positive PCR test shortly after the dawn of the New Year.

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Back then, the club had released an official statement and said, "They are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol."&nbsp;

"Neymar JR will continue his treatment in Brazil until 9 January with members of the Paris Saint-Germain medical and performance staff. His return to training is still expected to be in about 3 weeks," the statement further added.&nbsp;

Messi, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner, was out of action for PSG's 4-0 victory away to third-tier club Vannes on Monday (January 3) in a French Cup round-of-32 encounter. In his absence, Kylian Mbappe was the star-performer with his hat-trick along with one goal from&nbsp;Presnel Kimpembe.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentine-dj-responds-after-being-labelled-murderer-by-fans-over-lionel-messis-positive-covid-19-test-442031">Argentine DJ responds after being labelled 'murderer' by fans over Lionel Messi's positive COVID-19 test</a>

Talking about the Ligue 1 standings, Mauricio Pochettino's team remain atop with&nbsp;46 points after 19 matches.&nbsp;PSG is followed by Nice (13 points behind the table-toppers), Marseille and Rennes in the top four.

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2.

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2. However, Messi has returned to France from Argentina following his negative test and will also resume training with his PSG squad members in the next few days. He had spent the Christmas break in Argentina with his family members, however, his return to France got delayed due to a positive PCR test shortly after the dawn of the New Year. ALSO READ | League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out Back then, the club had released an official statement and said, "They are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol." "Neymar JR will continue his treatment in Brazil until 9 January with members of the Paris Saint-Germain medical and performance staff. His return to training is still expected to be in about 3 weeks," the statement further added. Messi, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner, was out of action for PSG's 4-0 victory away to third-tier club Vannes on Monday (January 3) in a French Cup round-of-32 encounter. In his absence, Kylian Mbappe was the star-performer with his hat-trick along with one goal from Presnel Kimpembe. ALSO READ | Argentine DJ responds after being labelled 'murderer' by fans over Lionel Messi's positive COVID-19 test Talking about the Ligue 1 standings, Mauricio Pochettino's team remain atop with 46 points after 19 matches. PSG is followed by Nice (13 points behind the table-toppers), Marseille and Rennes in the top four.

Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days

Argentina captain Lionel Messi achieved another historic feat in his illustrious career while representing Paris Saint Germain in the UEFA Champions League Group stage encounter versus Club Brugge on Tuesday (December 7). Messi and Kylian Mbappa's twin strikes each took PSG to a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Club Brugge as Messi broke Brazilian great Pele's record.

Pele, who has been one of the most prolific goal-scorer in South America, is sitting on 757 career goals for both club and country. However, the 7-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi moved past his tally after his splendid performance versus Club Brugge. The 34-year-old took his career goal tally to 758 and moved past Pele's record.&nbsp;

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For the unversed,&nbsp;Messi's overall tally (758) takes him&nbsp;to the second spot in the list of most career goals in professional football. He&nbsp;has 678 club goals to his name (majorly for Barcelona) and has scored a total of 80 goals for his country.

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According to the RSSSF, Lionel Messi has overtaken Pele in football’s all-time scorer’s list 🚨 <a href="https://t.co/dJaXjPT3Ml">pic.twitter.com/dJaXjPT3Ml</a>
— International Champions Cup (@IntChampionsCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/IntChampionsCup/status/1468309326456623105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Messi now has his eyes set on surpassing arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo's tally (801), who occupies the top spot in the list. Ronaldo, on the other hand, has also been in top form for the Manchester United and achieved his 800th as well as 801st goal during the Red Devils' recent encounter versus Arsenal in the Premier League, where Man Utd beat Arsenal 3-2.

Mbappa, on the other hand, also became the youngster to 30 Champion League goals following PSG's encounter versus Club Brugge.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi achieved another historic feat in his illustrious career while representing Paris Saint Germain in the UEFA Champions League Group stage encounter versus Club Brugge on Tuesday (December 7).

Argentina captain Lionel Messi achieved another historic feat in his illustrious career while representing Paris Saint Germain in the UEFA Champions League Group stage encounter versus Club Brugge on Tuesday (December 7). Messi and Kylian Mbappa's twin strikes each took PSG to a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Club Brugge as Messi broke Brazilian great Pele's record. Pele, who has been one of the most prolific goal-scorer in South America, is sitting on 757 career goals for both club and country. However, the 7-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi moved past his tally after his splendid performance versus Club Brugge. The 34-year-old took his career goal tally to 758 and moved past Pele's record. ALSO READ | Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of Zenit clash in Champions League For the unversed, Messi's overall tally (758) takes him to the second spot in the list of most career goals in professional football. He has 678 club goals to his name (majorly for Barcelona) and has scored a total of 80 goals for his country. According to the RSSSF, Lionel Messi has overtaken Pele in football’s all-time scorer’s list 🚨 pic.twitter.com/dJaXjPT3Ml — International Champions Cup (@IntChampionsCup) December 7, 2021 × ALSO READ | Demarai Gray bags stoppage-time winner as Everton beat Arsenal 2-1 in Premier League Messi now has his eyes set on surpassing arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo's tally (801), who occupies the top spot in the list. Ronaldo, on the other hand, has also been in top form for the Manchester United and achieved his 800th as well as 801st goal during the Red Devils' recent encounter versus Arsenal in the Premier League, where Man Utd beat Arsenal 3-2. Mbappa, on the other hand, also became the youngster to 30 Champion League goals following PSG's encounter versus Club Brugge.

Lionel Messi surpasses Pele with twin strikes vs Club Brugge, eyes arch-rival CR7's goal tally

Paris St Germain`s Brazil forward Neymar faces six to eight weeks on the sidelines with an ankle sprain sustained in Sunday`s 3-1 Ligue 1 comeback victory at 10-man St Etienne, the French club said in a statement on Monday.

The 29-year-old twisted his ankle in the dying seconds of the match after treading on the leg of St Etienne`s Yvann Macon which left him screaming in agony before he was carried off. Neymar was later pictured leaving the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard stadium on crutches.

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"The examinations carried out last night confirm that Neymar Jr suffers from a sprained left ankle with ligament injuries. An unavailability of six to eight weeks is to be expected," PSG said, adding his injury will be evaluated again in 72 hours. Neymar had earlier said in an Instagram post that setbacks were part of an athlete`s life and vowed to "come back better and stronger."

PSG`s Lionel Messi set up all three goals in the game as they stretched their lead at the top to 12 points.

Paris St Germain`s Brazil forward Neymar faces six to eight weeks on the sidelines with an ankle sprain sustained in Sunday`s 3-1 Ligue 1 comeback victory at 10-man St Etienne, the French club said in a statement on Monday.

Paris St Germain`s Brazil forward Neymar faces six to eight weeks on the sidelines with an ankle sprain sustained in Sunday`s 3-1 Ligue 1 comeback victory at 10-man St Etienne, the French club said in a statement on Monday. The 29-year-old twisted his ankle in the dying seconds of the match after treading on the leg of St Etienne`s Yvann Macon which left him screaming in agony before he was carried off. Neymar was later pictured leaving the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard stadium on crutches. ALSO READ | Manchester United appoint Ralf Rangnick as interim manager after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's sacking "The examinations carried out last night confirm that Neymar Jr suffers from a sprained left ankle with ligament injuries. An unavailability of six to eight weeks is to be expected," PSG said, adding his injury will be evaluated again in 72 hours. Neymar had earlier said in an Instagram post that setbacks were part of an athlete`s life and vowed to "come back better and stronger." PSG`s Lionel Messi set up all three goals in the game as they stretched their lead at the top to 12 points.

PSG's Brazil forward Neymar ruled out of action for up to eight weeks with ankle injury

From Saudi PIF to Sheikh Mansour: Top five richest football club owners in the world

Rennes scored just before and after the break to beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 and hand the runaway league leader its first defeat of the season. Gaetan Laborde put Rennes ahead on the stroke of halftime after PSG star Lionel Messi had hit the crossbar with a free kick in the 31st minute. Laborde turned provider in the 46th for midfielder Flavien Tait.

We played a very physical game and we hurt them on each of our runs,? Tait said. ?They were missing something today. PSG won its opening eight games but needed injury-time goals to edge victories against Lyon and Metz.

The first person responsible is me,? PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino said after he was outwitted by Rennes coach Bruno Genesio. PSG is six points ahead of second-placed Lens and eight clear of third-placed Nice, which has played one game less.

Rennes has been a tough place to visit for PSG in recent seasons and was again so for different reasons. 
Because of heavy wind and rain, the team was unable to fly to Brittany on Saturday night and arrived at the stadium by coach and car.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi, who scored a brilliant first goal for PSG in the Champions League on Tuesday, had a shot blocked early on. He hit the crossbar with a free kick for the second time since joining PSG in a shock move from Barcelona, where he netted 672 goals.

Although he still awaits his first league goal for PSG, Messi set up Mbappe midway through the first half ? but the shot was scuffed ? and almost created a goal for Neymar.

PSG was punished when Ghana winger Kamaldeen Sulemana picked out Laborde for his league-leading sixth goal. 
Mbappe pounced midway through the second half after Messi and Angel Di Maria put him through, but the goal was ruled out after a video review showed Mbappe was offside.

Laborde won a late penalty but it was called off following a review. In the late game, last-placed Saint-Etienne scored an injury-time penalty to tie bitter local rival Lyon 1-1. Tunisia forward Wahbi Khazri's spot kick for the hosts in the fifth minute of stoppage time came when video review detected a handball by Lyon defender Jason Denayer.

Khazri's goal led to a brief invasion of the field by home fans, but the game quickly resumed and concluded. 
Midtable Lyon missed the chance to go fifth while Saint-Etienne has just four points and is yet to win.

Lyon finished with 10 players after goalkeeper Anthony Lopes was sent off in the 74th for handling the ball outside the penalty area when striker Denis Bouanga lobbed him. 
Khazri scored in the 33rd but his effort was offside.

Lyon had punished Saint-Etienne when midfielder Houssem Aouar finished off Lucas Paqueta's pass in the 42nd. Former Liverpool winger Xherdan Shaqiri netted shortly after but his effort was disallowed because Paqueta was offside.

The second half was halted for a few minutes after Khazri accidentally kicked Lopes in the head reaching for the ball. 
Marseille earlier lost 2-0 at defending champion Lille with Marseille fans mourning the loss of iconic former president Bernard Tapie, who died on Sunday morning from cancer. He was 78.

Marseille fans erected a giant portrait of Tapie in front of their home stadium Stade Velodrome as tearful fans paid respects.

Lille and Marseille fans joined together in a moment's applause before the game as a picture of Tapie was beamed on the stadium scoreboard. Marseille players wore black armbands.

Canada forward Jonathan David scored twice and his second goal deep into injury time was set up by the United States forward Timothy Weah, the son of Liberia president George Weah.

Marseille finished with 10 players after Turkey winger Cengiz Under was sent off in the 77th for a high tackle. Marseille dropped to fifth place behind Angers as improving Lille moved up to eighth. 
 
Angers beat Metz 3-2 with 17-year-old forward Mohamed-Ali Cho among the scorers. 
Monaco's resurgence continued as it beat Bordeaux 3-0 to move up to sixth place and ninth-place Nantes beat Troyes 2-0.

Erik-Palmer Brown, a 24-year-old American defender, made his debut for Troyes following a loan from Manchester City.

Rennes scored just before and after the break to beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 and hand the runaway league leader its first defeat of the season. Gaetan Laborde put Rennes ahead on the stroke of halftime after PSG star Lionel Messi had hit the crossbar with a free kick in the 31st minute.

Rennes scored just before and after the break to beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 and hand the runaway league leader its first defeat of the season. Gaetan Laborde put Rennes ahead on the stroke of halftime after PSG star Lionel Messi had hit the crossbar with a free kick in the 31st minute. Laborde turned provider in the 46th for midfielder Flavien Tait. We played a very physical game and we hurt them on each of our runs,? Tait said. ?They were missing something today. PSG won its opening eight games but needed injury-time goals to edge victories against Lyon and Metz. The first person responsible is me,? PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino said after he was outwitted by Rennes coach Bruno Genesio. PSG is six points ahead of second-placed Lens and eight clear of third-placed Nice, which has played one game less. Rennes has been a tough place to visit for PSG in recent seasons and was again so for different reasons. Because of heavy wind and rain, the team was unable to fly to Brittany on Saturday night and arrived at the stadium by coach and car. The six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi, who scored a brilliant first goal for PSG in the Champions League on Tuesday, had a shot blocked early on. He hit the crossbar with a free kick for the second time since joining PSG in a shock move from Barcelona, where he netted 672 goals. Although he still awaits his first league goal for PSG, Messi set up Mbappe midway through the first half ? but the shot was scuffed ? and almost created a goal for Neymar. PSG was punished when Ghana winger Kamaldeen Sulemana picked out Laborde for his league-leading sixth goal. Mbappe pounced midway through the second half after Messi and Angel Di Maria put him through, but the goal was ruled out after a video review showed Mbappe was offside. Laborde won a late penalty but it was called off following a review. In the late game, last-placed Saint-Etienne scored an injury-time penalty to tie bitter local rival Lyon 1-1. Tunisia forward Wahbi Khazri's spot kick for the hosts in the fifth minute of stoppage time came when video review detected a handball by Lyon defender Jason Denayer. Khazri's goal led to a brief invasion of the field by home fans, but the game quickly resumed and concluded. Midtable Lyon missed the chance to go fifth while Saint-Etienne has just four points and is yet to win. Lyon finished with 10 players after goalkeeper Anthony Lopes was sent off in the 74th for handling the ball outside the penalty area when striker Denis Bouanga lobbed him. Khazri scored in the 33rd but his effort was offside. Lyon had punished Saint-Etienne when midfielder Houssem Aouar finished off Lucas Paqueta's pass in the 42nd. Former Liverpool winger Xherdan Shaqiri netted shortly after but his effort was disallowed because Paqueta was offside. The second half was halted for a few minutes after Khazri accidentally kicked Lopes in the head reaching for the ball. Marseille earlier lost 2-0 at defending champion Lille with Marseille fans mourning the loss of iconic former president Bernard Tapie, who died on Sunday morning from cancer. He was 78. Marseille fans erected a giant portrait of Tapie in front of their home stadium Stade Velodrome as tearful fans paid respects. Lille and Marseille fans joined together in a moment's applause before the game as a picture of Tapie was beamed on the stadium scoreboard. Marseille players wore black armbands. Canada forward Jonathan David scored twice and his second goal deep into injury time was set up by the United States forward Timothy Weah, the son of Liberia president George Weah. Marseille finished with 10 players after Turkey winger Cengiz Under was sent off in the 77th for a high tackle. Marseille dropped to fifth place behind Angers as improving Lille moved up to eighth. Angers beat Metz 3-2 with 17-year-old forward Mohamed-Ali Cho among the scorers. Monaco's resurgence continued as it beat Bordeaux 3-0 to move up to sixth place and ninth-place Nantes beat Troyes 2-0. Erik-Palmer Brown, a 24-year-old American defender, made his debut for Troyes following a loan from Manchester City.

Lionel Messi blanks as Rennes beat PSG 2-0 to hand league leader its 1st defeat in Ligue 1

It was a moment that Paris Saint-Germain fans had been waiting for since the arrival of Lionel Messi in mid-August, and finally it came in style and on a big occasion. 
 
In front of nearly 50,000 home supporters on Tuesday, the Argentine superstar scored his first goal for his new club, helping the Ligue 1 giants take a 2-0 revenge over English Premier League champions Manchester City, to whom they lost in the semifinals of last season`s Champions League. 
 
The 34-year-old forward sparked in the 74 minutes, running the ball into the front and after a good one-two with Kylian Mbappe, he found the net with his iconic left-foot strike. 
 
The goal sent the packed Parc des Princes into raptures with deafening roars hovering over the stadium and the crowd chanted by the scorer`s name, Xinhua reports. 
 
"It was a perfect night against a great opponent. For us, it was very important to win this game after Brugge," said Messi, who has played three matches for PSG before this week but failed to open his scoring account. 
 
"I am very happy to have scored. I haven`t played much recently," Messi added. "I am adapting little by little. What is important is to keep winning." 
 
It was Messi`s 121st goal in the Champions League and 27th in 35 appearances against the English teams - far more than any other player. With this goal, the six-time Ballon d`Or winner has scored in 17 consecutive Champions League seasons, equalling a record set by Karim Benzema just minutes earlier in another clash. 
 
"I`ve spent 20 years watching him score goals from the other side of the opposite pavement and it`s the first time he scores for a team I manage so I had to celebrate," PSG`s head coach Mauricio Pochettino said. 
 
"You need this type of performance and players like him need to feel the back of the net. He needs to create links within the team after 20 years in Barcelona. He`s feeling different things, there`s a lot of new feelings for him." 
 
French midfielder Idrissa Gueye put the hosts ahead only eight minutes into the game. Mbappe dribbled from the right and Neymar missed his cutback, but Gueye appeared in the right place and fired the ball into the top corner. 
 
Pep Guardiola`s side was close to an equalizer in the 26th minute but Raheem Sterling`s header was refused by the bar and Bernardo Silva`s shot hit the woodwork again. 
 
"They can take the space, they are exceptional players, like Messi-Suarez-Neymar at Barca," Guardiola said after the match, which was City`s first Champions League group defeat since September 2018, when they lost 2-1 to Lyon, before an 18-game unbeaten run. 
 
"It`s hard to control Messi for 90 minutes. It is difficult to stop him and we had to minimize the opportunities for him to touch the ball. Tonight we did what we know how to do, good or bad, but we are what we are. Tonight there was also Verratti who was extraordinary and managed to find connections with Neymar."

It was a moment that Paris Saint-Germain fans had been waiting for since the arrival of Lionel Messi in mid-August, and finally it came in style and on a big occasion.

It was a moment that Paris Saint-Germain fans had been waiting for since the arrival of Lionel Messi in mid-August, and finally it came in style and on a big occasion. In front of nearly 50,000 home supporters on Tuesday, the Argentine superstar scored his first goal for his new club, helping the Ligue 1 giants take a 2-0 revenge over English Premier League champions Manchester City, to whom they lost in the semifinals of last season`s Champions League. The 34-year-old forward sparked in the 74 minutes, running the ball into the front and after a good one-two with Kylian Mbappe, he found the net with his iconic left-foot strike. The goal sent the packed Parc des Princes into raptures with deafening roars hovering over the stadium and the crowd chanted by the scorer`s name, Xinhua reports. "It was a perfect night against a great opponent. For us, it was very important to win this game after Brugge," said Messi, who has played three matches for PSG before this week but failed to open his scoring account. "I am very happy to have scored. I haven`t played much recently," Messi added. "I am adapting little by little. What is important is to keep winning." It was Messi`s 121st goal in the Champions League and 27th in 35 appearances against the English teams - far more than any other player. With this goal, the six-time Ballon d`Or winner has scored in 17 consecutive Champions League seasons, equalling a record set by Karim Benzema just minutes earlier in another clash. "I`ve spent 20 years watching him score goals from the other side of the opposite pavement and it`s the first time he scores for a team I manage so I had to celebrate," PSG`s head coach Mauricio Pochettino said. "You need this type of performance and players like him need to feel the back of the net. He needs to create links within the team after 20 years in Barcelona. He`s feeling different things, there`s a lot of new feelings for him." French midfielder Idrissa Gueye put the hosts ahead only eight minutes into the game. Mbappe dribbled from the right and Neymar missed his cutback, but Gueye appeared in the right place and fired the ball into the top corner. Pep Guardiola`s side was close to an equalizer in the 26th minute but Raheem Sterling`s header was refused by the bar and Bernardo Silva`s shot hit the woodwork again. "They can take the space, they are exceptional players, like Messi-Suarez-Neymar at Barca," Guardiola said after the match, which was City`s first Champions League group defeat since September 2018, when they lost 2-1 to Lyon, before an 18-game unbeaten run. "It`s hard to control Messi for 90 minutes. It is difficult to stop him and we had to minimize the opportunities for him to touch the ball. Tonight we did what we know how to do, good or bad, but we are what we are. Tonight there was also Verratti who was extraordinary and managed to find connections with Neymar."

Lionel Messi scores maiden goal as PSG take sweet revenge on Man City in Champions League

Lionel Messi-starrer Paris-Saint Germain (PSG) got the better of Olympique&nbsp;Lyonnais&nbsp;(Lyon) during the French L1 football match between the two sides, held at The Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris on September 19 (Sunday). PSG defeated Lyon 2-1 as the Argentine also made his home debut for his new club after moving from Barcelona in a dramatic fashion. While the 34-year-old did produce a solid performance during the first half, he was subbed off by team manager Mauricio Pochettino with only 14 minutes left in the encounter. &nbsp;

Following Messi being asked to join the sidelines, his reaction has gone viral after being subbed during the end moments. Since then, many fans on social media platforms also reacted to Messi's response to the coach's decision. Many reports claimed that the superstar footballer ignored Pochettino's hand while walking off, however, replays did show that he did shake his hands with the manager.

Here are some of the responses of fans to Messi's reaction after he was subbed off by the PSG coach -

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Messi to Pochettino: I don’t care. I have already told the Board to sack you next week. <a href="https://t.co/Ja7bjOkfnM">pic.twitter.com/Ja7bjOkfnM</a>
— Jesse Lingard (@Jesse__Lingard_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jesse__Lingard_/status/1439867011555807238?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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An unhappy Messi? Is Pochettino ready for the heat? <a href="https://t.co/vyKCDsUosv">pic.twitter.com/vyKCDsUosv</a>
— Kwame Benaiah (@kwamebenaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/kwamebenaiah/status/1439697869183795207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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PSG wins a penalty against OL ..but Pochettino gives it to Neymar while Messi has not scored yet .then moves forward to substitute hi <a href="https://t.co/n188R51tBR">pic.twitter.com/n188R51tBR</a>
— JUJAMAICAN (@naya_biggie) <a href="https://twitter.com/naya_biggie/status/1439690072572538890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Messi was the best player on the pitch, and Pochettino chose to sub him out. Absolutely ridiculous.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PochettinoOUT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PochettinoOUT</a> <a href="https://t.co/oAOGCgws4a">pic.twitter.com/oAOGCgws4a</a>
— José Henrique #LM7 (@josephsn_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/josephsn_7/status/1439686469875023873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After the match, Pochettino defended his decision to take off the Argentine. "Everyone knows we have great players, a squad of 35. It is my decision. We can only have 11 players on the field at one time," Pochettino said. "I only think about the best decision in each game, for each player, just as every coach does. We are here to make decisions. Sometimes people will be happy with them, sometimes they won't be.&nbsp;I asked him how he was and he said he was fine," he concluded.

PSG now have 6 wins from equal number of matches and will next face FC Metz on September 23.

Lionel Messi-starrer Paris-Saint Germain (PSG) got the better of Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon) during the French L1 football match between the two sides, held at The Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris on September 19 (Sunday).

Lionel Messi-starrer Paris-Saint Germain (PSG) got the better of Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon) during the French L1 football match between the two sides, held at The Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris on September 19 (Sunday). PSG defeated Lyon 2-1 as the Argentine also made his home debut for his new club after moving from Barcelona in a dramatic fashion. While the 34-year-old did produce a solid performance during the first half, he was subbed off by team manager Mauricio Pochettino with only 14 minutes left in the encounter. Following Messi being asked to join the sidelines, his reaction has gone viral after being subbed during the end moments. Since then, many fans on social media platforms also reacted to Messi's response to the coach's decision. Many reports claimed that the superstar footballer ignored Pochettino's hand while walking off, however, replays did show that he did shake his hands with the manager. Here are some of the responses of fans to Messi's reaction after he was subbed off by the PSG coach - Messi to Pochettino: I don’t care. I have already told the Board to sack you next week. pic.twitter.com/Ja7bjOkfnM — Jesse Lingard (@Jesse__Lingard_) September 20, 2021 × An unhappy Messi? Is Pochettino ready for the heat? pic.twitter.com/vyKCDsUosv — Kwame Benaiah (@kwamebenaiah) September 19, 2021 × PSG wins a penalty against OL ..but Pochettino gives it to Neymar while Messi has not scored yet .then moves forward to substitute hi pic.twitter.com/n188R51tBR — JUJAMAICAN (@naya_biggie) September 19, 2021 × Messi was the best player on the pitch, and Pochettino chose to sub him out. Absolutely ridiculous.#PochettinoOUT pic.twitter.com/oAOGCgws4a — José Henrique #LM7 (@josephsn_7) September 19, 2021 × After the match, Pochettino defended his decision to take off the Argentine. "Everyone knows we have great players, a squad of 35. It is my decision. We can only have 11 players on the field at one time," Pochettino said. "I only think about the best decision in each game, for each player, just as every coach does. We are here to make decisions. Sometimes people will be happy with them, sometimes they won't be. I asked him how he was and he said he was fine," he concluded. PSG now have 6 wins from equal number of matches and will next face FC Metz on September 23.

Watch: Lionel Messi's reaction goes viral after being subbed off by PSG coach during face-off vs Lyon

Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday. 
 
Lionel Messi hit the woodwork on his first start with PSG but he failed to add to his 120 goals in the competition, while Neymar was hugely disappointing and Kylian Mbappe limped off the pitch injured after setting up Ander Herrera for the opening goal. 
 
It was the first time the three attacking players were together on the field and they struggled to find each other and create space against a compact Belgian side. 
 
"It requires time for them to shine together," said Pochettino. "It requires work. I had made it clear that we`re not a team yet, we have to work for this." 
 
Messi and Neymar, starting on the flanks, left the fullbacks exposed and Brugge exploited the space with a strong collective performance as PSG`s midfield was almost non-existent in the absence of the injured Marco Verratti. 
 
That prompted Pochettino to replace Leandro Paredes with Danilo and Georginio Wijnaldum with Julian Draxler but to no effect. 
 
"We needed more consistency and more fluidity. We made too many mistakes," Pochettino explained. "But despite all this I`m satisfied with the players. We have to keep calm and keep working." 
 
PSG are two points behind Manchester City who demolished RB Leipzig 6-3, two weeks before the Ligue 1 side take on the Premier League champions at the Parc des Princes.

Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday.

Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday. Lionel Messi hit the woodwork on his first start with PSG but he failed to add to his 120 goals in the competition, while Neymar was hugely disappointing and Kylian Mbappe limped off the pitch injured after setting up Ander Herrera for the opening goal. It was the first time the three attacking players were together on the field and they struggled to find each other and create space against a compact Belgian side. "It requires time for them to shine together," said Pochettino. "It requires work. I had made it clear that we`re not a team yet, we have to work for this." Messi and Neymar, starting on the flanks, left the fullbacks exposed and Brugge exploited the space with a strong collective performance as PSG`s midfield was almost non-existent in the absence of the injured Marco Verratti. That prompted Pochettino to replace Leandro Paredes with Danilo and Georginio Wijnaldum with Julian Draxler but to no effect. "We needed more consistency and more fluidity. We made too many mistakes," Pochettino explained. "But despite all this I`m satisfied with the players. We have to keep calm and keep working." PSG are two points behind Manchester City who demolished RB Leipzig 6-3, two weeks before the Ligue 1 side take on the Premier League champions at the Parc des Princes.

It will take time for attacking trio to shine: PSG coach backs Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar

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

Paris Saint-Germain have received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants have reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-superstar-cristiano-ronaldo-mulling-transfer-to-manchester-city-reports-408216" hreflang="en">Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo mulling transfer to Manchester City: Reports</a>

Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG.&nbsp;

Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later.&nbsp;

According to reports, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.&nbsp;

Recently, football star Lionel Messi joined the club after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG with the option of an additional year.

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.

Paris Saint-Germain have received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants have reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million).

Paris Saint-Germain have received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants have reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million). ALSO READ: Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo mulling transfer to Manchester City: Reports Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG. Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later. According to reports, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met. Recently, football star Lionel Messi joined the club after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG with the option of an additional year. 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.

Real Madrid places £137m bid for Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappé: Reports

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

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>
— Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) <a href="https://twitter.com/SergioRamos/status/1425516699172933635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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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

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.

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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

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

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade.

PSG, despite boasting the two most expensive signings ever in Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, did suffer eight defeats, their most in a single campaign since 2010-11.

Yet somebody still needed to take advantage of the Qatar-owned club's slip-ups and Lille did that emphatically. They also took four points off PSG, including beating them in Paris.

"We have only lost three games. Maybe PSG have not been as good but Lille have been great," said winger Jonathan Bamba.

<h2>- The architects -</h2>

Lille's success is partly down to circumstance, and partly down to two inspirational figures.

The coach, Christophe Galtier, took over a sinking ship from Marcelo Bielsa midway through the 2017-18 season.

Lille just avoided relegation and then finished second to PSG in his first full season. They were fourth when last season was ended early because of the coronavirus pandemic, and now they are champions.

Galtier's success is all the more remarkable given that the club has regularly sold its best players.

In 2018 midfielder Yves Bissouma was sold to Brighton. In 2019 they sold star forward Nicolas Pepe to Arsenal for 80 million euros ($97m), Rafael Leao to AC Milan and midfielder Thiago Mendes to Lyon.

Last year top scorer Victor Osimhen left for Napoli for 70 million euros, while Brazilian centre-back Gabriel joined Arsenal for 30 million.

Yet Galtier has brilliantly incorporated replacements and hugely enhanced a reputation that was already glowing following his record in eight years at Saint-Etienne.

But the one-time Portsmouth assistant manager's success would not have been possible without Luis Campos, the Portuguese super-scout who built the Monaco team that denied PSG the title in 2017.

He was also the genius behind the scenes at Lille, the man who made it possible for them to sell Pepe and Mendes in 2019 and replace them with Osimhen and Renato Sanches.

Last year he replaced Gabriel with young Dutch defender Sven Botman while replacing Osimhen with Canadian striker Jonathan David and signing veteran Turkish striker Burak Yilmaz.&nbsp;

'King Burak' has been an absolute superstar.

Fittingly, both men were on target in Sunday's title-clinching 2-1 win at Angers.

Campos, though, left Monaco a year before their title triumph and his relationship with Lille ended midway through this season too.

After 2017, that Monaco team was gradually broken up. When the title celebrations among Lille supporters die down, they might worry for the future too.

Their current team was only not pillaged even more last summer because of the financial impact on Europe's leading clubs of the pandemic.

This time Lille will lose more players, goalkeeper Mike Maignan and midfielder Boubakary Soumare probably among them, but Campos will not be there to sign replacements.

<h2>- New owners, new direction? -</h2>

Galtier's achievements are even more remarkable given Lille went through considerable off-field turmoil in the winter.

It was not just Campos who left but also the club's owner, Luxembourgish-Spanish businessman Gerard Lopez, who under financial pressure sold Lille in December to a subsidiary of the Merlyn Partners investment fund.

"What has allowed Lille to be in the spotlight today is simple," Galtier told sports daily L'Equipe in November.

"The president found funds to invest in players spotted by a man of incredible competence."

Now they have both gone and Galtier may not be there next season either. He has a year left on his contract but may feel he can take Lille no further. He has been linked with French rivals Lyon and Nice.

Lille now have a new president in ex-PSG sporting director Olivier Letang, but French football is still reeling from the collapse of a record domestic broadcast deal with Mediapro late last year.

In any case Lille's budget is smaller than that of Lyon, Marseille and Monaco as well as PSG.

The Parisians will almost certainly be back next year but Lille, champions for the fourth time in their history, will be able to say the success was fun while it lasted.

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade.

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade. PSG, despite boasting the two most expensive signings ever in Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, did suffer eight defeats, their most in a single campaign since 2010-11. Yet somebody still needed to take advantage of the Qatar-owned club's slip-ups and Lille did that emphatically. They also took four points off PSG, including beating them in Paris. "We have only lost three games. Maybe PSG have not been as good but Lille have been great," said winger Jonathan Bamba. - The architects - Lille's success is partly down to circumstance, and partly down to two inspirational figures. The coach, Christophe Galtier, took over a sinking ship from Marcelo Bielsa midway through the 2017-18 season. Lille just avoided relegation and then finished second to PSG in his first full season. They were fourth when last season was ended early because of the coronavirus pandemic, and now they are champions. Galtier's success is all the more remarkable given that the club has regularly sold its best players. In 2018 midfielder Yves Bissouma was sold to Brighton. In 2019 they sold star forward Nicolas Pepe to Arsenal for 80 million euros ($97m), Rafael Leao to AC Milan and midfielder Thiago Mendes to Lyon. Last year top scorer Victor Osimhen left for Napoli for 70 million euros, while Brazilian centre-back Gabriel joined Arsenal for 30 million. Yet Galtier has brilliantly incorporated replacements and hugely enhanced a reputation that was already glowing following his record in eight years at Saint-Etienne. But the one-time Portsmouth assistant manager's success would not have been possible without Luis Campos, the Portuguese super-scout who built the Monaco team that denied PSG the title in 2017. He was also the genius behind the scenes at Lille, the man who made it possible for them to sell Pepe and Mendes in 2019 and replace them with Osimhen and Renato Sanches. Last year he replaced Gabriel with young Dutch defender Sven Botman while replacing Osimhen with Canadian striker Jonathan David and signing veteran Turkish striker Burak Yilmaz. 'King Burak' has been an absolute superstar. Fittingly, both men were on target in Sunday's title-clinching 2-1 win at Angers. Campos, though, left Monaco a year before their title triumph and his relationship with Lille ended midway through this season too. After 2017, that Monaco team was gradually broken up. When the title celebrations among Lille supporters die down, they might worry for the future too. Their current team was only not pillaged even more last summer because of the financial impact on Europe's leading clubs of the pandemic. This time Lille will lose more players, goalkeeper Mike Maignan and midfielder Boubakary Soumare probably among them, but Campos will not be there to sign replacements. - New owners, new direction? - Galtier's achievements are even more remarkable given Lille went through considerable off-field turmoil in the winter. It was not just Campos who left but also the club's owner, Luxembourgish-Spanish businessman Gerard Lopez, who under financial pressure sold Lille in December to a subsidiary of the Merlyn Partners investment fund. "What has allowed Lille to be in the spotlight today is simple," Galtier told sports daily L'Equipe in November. "The president found funds to invest in players spotted by a man of incredible competence." Now they have both gone and Galtier may not be there next season either. He has a year left on his contract but may feel he can take Lille no further. He has been linked with French rivals Lyon and Nice. Lille now have a new president in ex-PSG sporting director Olivier Letang, but French football is still reeling from the collapse of a record domestic broadcast deal with Mediapro late last year. In any case Lille's budget is smaller than that of Lyon, Marseille and Monaco as well as PSG. The Parisians will almost certainly be back next year but Lille, champions for the fourth time in their history, will be able to say the success was fun while it lasted.

Football: Lille enjoy French title win but maintaining success may be impossible

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France.

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Quick thinking by Mbappe to dispose of&nbsp;Axel Disasi in his own penalty area, as the Monaco defender, let a short pass from goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki slip under his feet, set up a 19th-minute opener for Mauro Icardi.

Mbappe took the ball away and, displaying quick feet, passed square for Icardi to tuck the ball home from close range.

With teammate Neymar suspended and watching from the empty stands, Mbappe was able to dominate the contest with his talent and pace and added the second goal in the 81st minute.

Angel Di Maria set him up with a short through-ball and the World Cup winner lifted his finish over Majecki to make sure of the outcome.

Mbappe’s goal came a minute after he had hit the crossbar with a clever chip from outside the penalty area having spotted Majecki off his line.

It was one of few chances in a largely dour final, played behind closed doors, that only came alive in the last 15 minutes.

PSG retained their title and extended to 14 their record number of wins in the cup. Monaco had won five previous times but last in 1991. They were last in the final in 2010 when PSG also beat them.

“We work every day to experience this type of emotion, reward and recognition. The work of a whole group, the staff, and the supporters who could not be here. We think about them a lot, this title is also for them," Mbappe said.

"When you play for PSG, one of the biggest clubs in the world, the biggest club in the country, every title counts to go down in history. We want to be part of this story, it's a great step today."

PSG defender Alessandro Florenzi had a powerful shot tipped over by Majecki in the first half while Monaco created the better opportunities after the break.

PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas made two good saves from Wissam Ben Yedder and Krepin Diatta and saw an errant cross rebound back into play off his crossbar.

But any hopes of a comeback were swiftly ended by the pace and vision of Mbappe as he settled the outcome.

Both clubs now turn their attention to the end of the Ligue 1 season on Sunday where they hold out hopes of winning the title. PSG are second, one point behind leaders Lille, while Monaco are three points adrift.

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France.

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France. ALSO READ: Liverpool must maintain focus to seal top-four finish: Phillips Quick thinking by Mbappe to dispose of Axel Disasi in his own penalty area, as the Monaco defender, let a short pass from goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki slip under his feet, set up a 19th-minute opener for Mauro Icardi. Mbappe took the ball away and, displaying quick feet, passed square for Icardi to tuck the ball home from close range. With teammate Neymar suspended and watching from the empty stands, Mbappe was able to dominate the contest with his talent and pace and added the second goal in the 81st minute. Angel Di Maria set him up with a short through-ball and the World Cup winner lifted his finish over Majecki to make sure of the outcome. Mbappe’s goal came a minute after he had hit the crossbar with a clever chip from outside the penalty area having spotted Majecki off his line. It was one of few chances in a largely dour final, played behind closed doors, that only came alive in the last 15 minutes. PSG retained their title and extended to 14 their record number of wins in the cup. Monaco had won five previous times but last in 1991. They were last in the final in 2010 when PSG also beat them. “We work every day to experience this type of emotion, reward and recognition. The work of a whole group, the staff, and the supporters who could not be here. We think about them a lot, this title is also for them," Mbappe said. "When you play for PSG, one of the biggest clubs in the world, the biggest club in the country, every title counts to go down in history. We want to be part of this story, it's a great step today." PSG defender Alessandro Florenzi had a powerful shot tipped over by Majecki in the first half while Monaco created the better opportunities after the break. PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas made two good saves from Wissam Ben Yedder and Krepin Diatta and saw an errant cross rebound back into play off his crossbar. But any hopes of a comeback were swiftly ended by the pace and vision of Mbappe as he settled the outcome. Both clubs now turn their attention to the end of the Ligue 1 season on Sunday where they hold out hopes of winning the title. PSG are second, one point behind leaders Lille, while Monaco are three points adrift.

Kylian Mbappe magic sets up Paris Saint-Germain for French Cup victory

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

PSG went ahead courtesy of a Marquinhos header in the first half, but Mauricio Pochettino's side lost control after the break with De Bruyne and Mahrez finding the back of the net in the space of eight minutes to secure City's 18th consecutive away win in all competitions.

Last year's runners-up PSG then found themselves with a higher mountain to climb as midfielder Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card in the 77th minute for a reckless challenge on Ilkay Gundogan.

"The second half was much better, the way the first goal went in was a little bit lucky but we played great football in the second half, we did well," De Bruyne said.

Pochettino agreed the visitors were the better team after the interval.

"There were two different halves. In the first half we did well. We created chances and deserved the lead, but in the second half they were better than us," he said.

"The two goals were accidents, but they created more than us."

The French champions will need to show next Tuesday the same away form that enabled them to beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou and Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in previous rounds if they are to progress.

"At halftime, I told the players we needed to be ourselves. We needed to be more aggressive and we didn't let them breathe after the break," City manager Pep Guardiola said.

City dominated the early possession but PSG were the more dangerous side with Brazilian forward Neymar twice testing City keeper Ederson.

Marquinhos, returning to the team from an injury suffered in the quarter-final first leg against Bayern, put the hosts in front when he headed home Angel Di Maria's whipped corner in the 15th minute.

City, overly cautious for fear of being punished on the break, were again exposed on a set-piece when Leandro Paredes headed Neymar's corner just wide.

Guardiola's side lacked their usual composure, with Joao Cancelo picking up a yellow card for a woeful challenge on Kylian Mbappe.

City's first real chance came in the 42nd minute when Phil Foden, played infield by Bernardo Silva, shot too close to PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas.

The visitors were more attack-minded in the second half and they equalised after 64 minutes when De Bruyne, from a pass by Oleksandr Zinchenko who had just replaced Cancelo, sent in a cross and Navas failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net.

Navas was beaten again seven minutes later when Mahrez's free kick flew straight through a flimsy PSG wall and past the helpless Navas.

Gueye's dismissal for a wild tackle on Gundogan made City's task easier and they will take a big advantage into the second leg in Manchester.

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday. PSG went ahead courtesy of a Marquinhos header in the first half, but Mauricio Pochettino's side lost control after the break with De Bruyne and Mahrez finding the back of the net in the space of eight minutes to secure City's 18th consecutive away win in all competitions. Last year's runners-up PSG then found themselves with a higher mountain to climb as midfielder Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card in the 77th minute for a reckless challenge on Ilkay Gundogan. "The second half was much better, the way the first goal went in was a little bit lucky but we played great football in the second half, we did well," De Bruyne said. Pochettino agreed the visitors were the better team after the interval. "There were two different halves. In the first half we did well. We created chances and deserved the lead, but in the second half they were better than us," he said. "The two goals were accidents, but they created more than us." The French champions will need to show next Tuesday the same away form that enabled them to beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou and Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in previous rounds if they are to progress. "At halftime, I told the players we needed to be ourselves. We needed to be more aggressive and we didn't let them breathe after the break," City manager Pep Guardiola said. City dominated the early possession but PSG were the more dangerous side with Brazilian forward Neymar twice testing City keeper Ederson. Marquinhos, returning to the team from an injury suffered in the quarter-final first leg against Bayern, put the hosts in front when he headed home Angel Di Maria's whipped corner in the 15th minute. City, overly cautious for fear of being punished on the break, were again exposed on a set-piece when Leandro Paredes headed Neymar's corner just wide. Guardiola's side lacked their usual composure, with Joao Cancelo picking up a yellow card for a woeful challenge on Kylian Mbappe. City's first real chance came in the 42nd minute when Phil Foden, played infield by Bernardo Silva, shot too close to PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The visitors were more attack-minded in the second half and they equalised after 64 minutes when De Bruyne, from a pass by Oleksandr Zinchenko who had just replaced Cancelo, sent in a cross and Navas failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net. Navas was beaten again seven minutes later when Mahrez's free kick flew straight through a flimsy PSG wall and past the helpless Navas. Gueye's dismissal for a wild tackle on Gundogan made City's task easier and they will take a big advantage into the second leg in Manchester.

Manchester City fight back to beat 10-man Paris Saint-Germain in first leg

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday.

De Bruyne was a doubt for two of the biggest games of City's season after the Belgium star suffered ankle and foot injuries during last weekend's FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea.

The 29-year-old limped off in the 48th minute at Wembley and missed City's 2-1 win at Aston Villa in the Premier League on Wednesday.

That sparked fears he would not be available for the League Cup final or Wednesday's trip to Paris for the Champions League semi-final first leg.

But City boss Guardiola, speaking at a pre-match press conference, said both De Bruyne and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero would be available after training on Friday.

Aguero, who will leave City at the end of the season, has been struggling with a muscle problem after an injury-plagued campaign.

"They are both (ready), they trained today. Tomorrow we are going to decide," Guardiola said.

Treble-chasing City need eight points from their remaining five games to win a third Premier League title in four seasons.

They are bidding to win the Champions League for the first time, while Guardiola hasn't lifted the trophy since 2011 with Barcelona.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday. De Bruyne was a doubt for two of the biggest games of City's season after the Belgium star suffered ankle and foot injuries during last weekend's FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea. The 29-year-old limped off in the 48th minute at Wembley and missed City's 2-1 win at Aston Villa in the Premier League on Wednesday. That sparked fears he would not be available for the League Cup final or Wednesday's trip to Paris for the Champions League semi-final first leg. But City boss Guardiola, speaking at a pre-match press conference, said both De Bruyne and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero would be available after training on Friday. Aguero, who will leave City at the end of the season, has been struggling with a muscle problem after an injury-plagued campaign. "They are both (ready), they trained today. Tomorrow we are going to decide," Guardiola said. Treble-chasing City need eight points from their remaining five games to win a third Premier League title in four seasons. They are bidding to win the Champions League for the first time, while Guardiola hasn't lifted the trophy since 2011 with Barcelona.

Man City's De Bruyne fit for League Cup final, PSG clash

Argentina and Paris Saint Germain star Angel Di Maria on Friday signed a one-year extension with French giants keeping him in the club until June 2022, defending Ligue 1 champs announced.&nbsp;

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According to the statement released by Paris Saint Germain, the deal included the option for an extra season.

The 33-year-old winger joined the French club in 2015 after a bad spell with Manchester United. Di Maria has also played with Real Madrid, Benfica and Rosario Central.

However, Paris Saint Germain's main focus is to extend the contracts of Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, whose deals&nbsp;are set to expire at the end of next season.

The Qatar-owned club this week ousted Barcelona to qualify for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, while they currently sit second in Ligue 1, two points behind leaders Lille.

The French Giants moved into the quarterfinals in the UEFA Champions League after beating Barcelona 5-2 (aggregate score) in the Round of 16.

Argentina and Paris Saint Germain star Angel Di Maria on Friday signed a one-year extension with French giants keeping him in the club until June 2022, defending Ligue 1 champs announced.

Argentina and Paris Saint Germain star Angel Di Maria on Friday signed a one-year extension with French giants keeping him in the club until June 2022, defending Ligue 1 champs announced. ALSO READ: Spurs boss Mourinho expects 'master' Kane to be fit to face Arsenal According to the statement released by Paris Saint Germain, the deal included the option for an extra season. The 33-year-old winger joined the French club in 2015 after a bad spell with Manchester United. Di Maria has also played with Real Madrid, Benfica and Rosario Central. However, Paris Saint Germain's main focus is to extend the contracts of Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, whose deals are set to expire at the end of next season. The Qatar-owned club this week ousted Barcelona to qualify for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, while they currently sit second in Ligue 1, two points behind leaders Lille. The French Giants moved into the quarterfinals in the UEFA Champions League after beating Barcelona 5-2 (aggregate score) in the Round of 16.

Angel Di Maria extends Paris Saint Germain contract until 2022: Club

Cup holders Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday reached the round of 32 of Coup de France after a 1-0 win over Ligue 2 side Caen. However, PSG's star striker Neymar Jr. suffered a possible groin injury during the match.&nbsp;

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The Brazilian's injury comes as a worry for Paris as they are set to lock horns with Barcelona after six days. Steeve Yago's tackle on 56th minute forced Neymar to limp off the field and be replaced by Kylian Mbappe.&nbsp;

"There's something with his adductor (muscle). It will be checked by the medical staff tomorrow," coach Mauricio Pochettino told a news conference.

"We don't know what it is, we'll know more tomorrow. We can't say anything before he's been examined tomorrow."

PSG benched Mbappe and Marquinhos and struggled against a second-division team. Yet the visitors sprung to life after the break as Kean netted from close range from Neymar's cross at the end of a counter-attack four minutes into the second half.

However, Neymar's injury was the main highlight of the match as PSG have already lost Angel Di Maria for the Barcelona clash.&nbsp;

Cup holders Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday reached the round of 32 of Coup de France after a 1-0 win over Ligue 2 side Caen. However, PSG's star striker Neymar Jr.

Cup holders Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday reached the round of 32 of Coup de France after a 1-0 win over Ligue 2 side Caen. However, PSG's star striker Neymar Jr. suffered a possible groin injury during the match. ALSO READ: Manchester United, Arsenal Europa League matches moved to Italy The Brazilian's injury comes as a worry for Paris as they are set to lock horns with Barcelona after six days. Steeve Yago's tackle on 56th minute forced Neymar to limp off the field and be replaced by Kylian Mbappe. "There's something with his adductor (muscle). It will be checked by the medical staff tomorrow," coach Mauricio Pochettino told a news conference. "We don't know what it is, we'll know more tomorrow. We can't say anything before he's been examined tomorrow." PSG benched Mbappe and Marquinhos and struggled against a second-division team. Yet the visitors sprung to life after the break as Kean netted from close range from Neymar's cross at the end of a counter-attack four minutes into the second half. However, Neymar's injury was the main highlight of the match as PSG have already lost Angel Di Maria for the Barcelona clash.

Coup de France: Neymar Jr. injured as Paris St Germain reach round of 32

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations.&nbsp;

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As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026. Neymar was has been very vocal about staying in the club for a longer duration.&nbsp;

In an interview on French television, Neymar said that he wants to stay in the club. PSG's sporting director, Leonardo, was instrumental in the negotiations and the agreement between the club and Neymar.

The sporting director now plans to do the same with Kylian Mbappe, whose contract is set to expire in 18 months. But the French star is yet to decide on his future in the club as he is rumoured to be linked with Real Madrid.

Since arriving at Pard des Princes in August 2017, Neymar has won three Ligue 1 titles, to go with two Coupes de France, two Coupes de la Ligue and two Trophees des Champions. The Brazilian left Barcelona on world-record fee off €222 million.&nbsp;

He reached the 100 games milestone for the club last week, before the defeat at Lorient after scoring a brace on Sunday.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations. ALSO READ: ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations. ALSO READ: ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026. Neymar was has been very vocal about staying in the club for a longer duration. In an interview on French television, Neymar said that he wants to stay in the club. PSG's sporting director, Leonardo, was instrumental in the negotiations and the agreement between the club and Neymar. The sporting director now plans to do the same with Kylian Mbappe, whose contract is set to expire in 18 months. But the French star is yet to decide on his future in the club as he is rumoured to be linked with Real Madrid. Since arriving at Pard des Princes in August 2017, Neymar has won three Ligue 1 titles, to go with two Coupes de France, two Coupes de la Ligue and two Trophees des Champions. The Brazilian left Barcelona on world-record fee off €222 million. He reached the 100 games milestone for the club last week, before the defeat at Lorient after scoring a brace on Sunday.

Football star Neymar extends his contract with Paris Saint-Germain: Report

Paris Saint Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for coronavirus on Friday. The club on Friday released a statement and said that the Argentine will miss weekend's Ligue 1 clash against Angers.&nbsp;

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The Argentine coach's assistants Jesus Perez and Miguel D'Agostino are set to take charge of the squad for Saturday's league encounter.

"Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for Sars-Cov2 after a PCR test. He will now be in isolation and follow the appropriate medical advice," the club said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/form-goes-out-the-window-against-liverpool-says-man-utds-solskjaer-356986" hreflang="en">Form goes out the window against Liverpool, says Man Utd's Solskjaer</a>

Paris Saint-Germain had officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach after sacking German coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style". &nbsp;

The French club took to their website announced the news and said that Pochettino had signed a contract until June 30, 2022, with an option for an additional year.

"PSG are one of the biggest clubs in the world," the 48-year-old told the club's TV channel. "So it's not only important to win but to win with style." However, he added: "Discipline is important, respect, friendship between the players but also all the staff."

Defending league champions PSG are a point behind leaders Olympique Lyonnais at the halfway stage of the season.

Recently, Paris Saint Germain's 2-1 win over Marseille in the French Super Cup ensured first silverware for the new manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Paris Saint Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for coronavirus on Friday. The club on Friday released a statement and said that the Argentine will miss weekend's Ligue 1 clash against Angers.

Paris Saint Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for coronavirus on Friday. The club on Friday released a statement and said that the Argentine will miss weekend's Ligue 1 clash against Angers. ALSO READ: Mourinho says not discussed Bale's future for one second The Argentine coach's assistants Jesus Perez and Miguel D'Agostino are set to take charge of the squad for Saturday's league encounter. "Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for Sars-Cov2 after a PCR test. He will now be in isolation and follow the appropriate medical advice," the club said in a statement. ALSO READ: Form goes out the window against Liverpool, says Man Utd's Solskjaer Paris Saint-Germain had officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach after sacking German coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style". The French club took to their website announced the news and said that Pochettino had signed a contract until June 30, 2022, with an option for an additional year. "PSG are one of the biggest clubs in the world," the 48-year-old told the club's TV channel. "So it's not only important to win but to win with style." However, he added: "Discipline is important, respect, friendship between the players but also all the staff." Defending league champions PSG are a point behind leaders Olympique Lyonnais at the halfway stage of the season. Recently, Paris Saint Germain's 2-1 win over Marseille in the French Super Cup ensured first silverware for the new manager Mauricio Pochettino.

PSG's new head coach Mauricio Pochettino tests positive for COVID-19, will miss Angers clash

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club.&nbsp;

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pochettino-to-allegri-managers-that-could-replace-tuchel-in-psg-352117" hreflang="en">From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG</a>

"It is sadly the law of football. Nobody will forget your time here. You wrote a wonderful part of the club's history and I say to you: 'thank you, coach'," Mbappe said in an Instagram post on Thursday that was accompanied by a picture of him with Tuchel.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season.

Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0.&nbsp;

Pochettino, who played for PSG as a defender in the early 2000s, has been out of a job since being dismissed by Spurs in November 2019. He guided the London side to the Champions League final in the 2018-19 season.

"Pochettino is being lined up by @PSG_English. A terrific coach whose only minus is the lack of winning trophies... Well, that's about to change," former England and Spurs striker Gary Lineker tweeted.

Former Argentina international Juan Pablo Sorin said: "Pochettino to @PSG_inside? Hopefully."

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club.

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club. ALSO SEE: From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG "It is sadly the law of football. Nobody will forget your time here. You wrote a wonderful part of the club's history and I say to you: 'thank you, coach'," Mbappe said in an Instagram post on Thursday that was accompanied by a picture of him with Tuchel. French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season. Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0. Pochettino, who played for PSG as a defender in the early 2000s, has been out of a job since being dismissed by Spurs in November 2019. He guided the London side to the Champions League final in the 2018-19 season. "Pochettino is being lined up by @PSG_English. A terrific coach whose only minus is the lack of winning trophies... Well, that's about to change," former England and Spurs striker Gary Lineker tweeted. Former Argentina international Juan Pablo Sorin said: "Pochettino to @PSG_inside? Hopefully."

'Thank you, coach': Paris St Germain Kylian Mbappe thanks former coach Tuchel

From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG

Former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand feels that football is at a "tipping point" after Istanbul Basaksehir and Paris St Germain players walked off the pitch on Tuesday amid accusations a match official used a racist term. Ferdinand said that all those in power should make a stand.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-basaksehir-stage-champions-league-walk-out-over-officials-alleged-racism-348492" hreflang="en">PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism</a>

The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday.

The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term.

This incident comes after fans at Millwall's English Championship match against Derby County booed the players when they took a knee in support of the 'Black Lives Matter' movement on Saturday.

"We're at a disturbing tipping point," former England international Ferdinand told BT Sport. "We've got Millwall, the PSG game today, all in the same week. Not a week goes by at the moment without an incident involving race.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-utd-stumble-out-of-champions-league-with-loss-in-leipzig-348496" hreflang="en">Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig</a>

"We're at the point now where something needs to be done, we're saying it all of the time, but the powers that be within this game need to make a huge stand."

While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident.

Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee.&nbsp;

UEFA has been working strongly to kill racial discrimination from the sport and has strict sanctions against those found guilty of discrimination. “Say No To Racism” has been a go-to slogan in UEFA competitions for many years now.&nbsp;

Former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand feels that football is at a "tipping point" after Istanbul Basaksehir and Paris St Germain players walked off the pitch on Tuesday amid accusations a match official used a racist term.

Former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand feels that football is at a "tipping point" after Istanbul Basaksehir and Paris St Germain players walked off the pitch on Tuesday amid accusations a match official used a racist term. Ferdinand said that all those in power should make a stand. Also read: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday. The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term. This incident comes after fans at Millwall's English Championship match against Derby County booed the players when they took a knee in support of the 'Black Lives Matter' movement on Saturday. "We're at a disturbing tipping point," former England international Ferdinand told BT Sport. "We've got Millwall, the PSG game today, all in the same week. Not a week goes by at the moment without an incident involving race. Also read: Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig "We're at the point now where something needs to be done, we're saying it all of the time, but the powers that be within this game need to make a huge stand." While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident. Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee. UEFA has been working strongly to kill racial discrimination from the sport and has strict sanctions against those found guilty of discrimination. “Say No To Racism” has been a go-to slogan in UEFA competitions for many years now.

'Football at tipping point', says Rio Ferdinand after Basaksehir, PSG players walk off

Paris Saint-Germain will be playing for their Champions League lives against Manchester United on Wednesday, with last season's runners-up knowing the costs of group-stage elimination could be enormous on and off the field.

Anything less than victory at Old Trafford and the French champions could see their destiny slip out of their hands going into the last game in Group H.

Neymar's penalty gave the Qatar-owned club victory over RB Leipzig last week, but Thomas Tuchel's team performed poorly and the coach's agitation when searching questions are put to him by the press suggest all is not well in Paris.

PSG are top of Ligue 1, although their lead has been trimmed back in recent weeks following more disappointing displays.

"There is no way we can play like that in Manchester, like we did in the second half," Tuchel warned after Saturday's 2-2 draw with Bordeaux.

There will be potentially major consequences if they fail to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League, something they have managed in each of the last eight seasons since becoming regulars in the competition again after the Qatari takeover.

Tuchel is out of contract after this season and sporting director Leonardo is not believed to be a huge fan of the German, even if he recently dismissed reports he was looking for a replacement.

"Honestly the club has never thought about another coach to replace Tuchel. Now is the time to concentrate on our objectives and to stick together," Leonardo said in a question and answer session with supporters.

Despite that, it is hard to imagine Tuchel surviving in the event of a European disaster, as being dumped out at the first hurdle would be a huge blow to PSG's prestige.

Over the last decade it has become almost impossible for such ignominy to befall one of Europe's super clubs, a category into which PSG now fit as the fifth-richest in the world according to Deloitte's Football Money League.

Barcelona have made it out of their group in every season since returning to the competition in 2004, while Real Madrid have got out of their group in every year since 1997.

Bayern Munich have done so in every year since 2008. Manchester City have already secured an eighth consecutive appearance in the last 16, Juventus a seventh.

<h2>- Financial repercussions -</h2>

After revelling in the team's run to the final in Lisbon, PSG's Qatari owners would not take kindly to such a sporting slap in the face.

Financially, the repercussions could be serious.

PSG are looking at ways of extending the contracts of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, whose existing deals expire in 2022, but how can they in their current financial predicament?

Documents released in 2018 by Football Leaks showed Neymar's after-tax salary to be 30 million euros ($35.8m) a year while Mbappe's salary was due to rise to 11 million euros this year.

If PSG are prepared to offer whatever it takes to keep them, will they be able to invest in the other areas of the team that need upgrading?

They have been hamstrung by the coronavirus crisis, suffering huge losses from the decision to cut short the last French season.

RMC Sport recently reported that PSG were preparing for a loss of some 200 million euros this season, chiefly from lost gate receipts due to the pandemic.

A group-stage exit from the Champions League would only make things worse.

Just reaching the last 16 was worth 9.5 million euros last season, while reaching and winning the final was worth another 41.5 million euros, enough to cover the wages of Neymar and Mbappe for a year.

UEFA is set to reduce prize money over the next few years because of the impact of the health crisis, but PSG can ill afford to miss out on these sums. The stakes in Manchester will be high.

Paris Saint-Germain will be playing for their Champions League lives against Manchester United on Wednesday, with last season's runners-up knowing the costs of group-stage elimination could be enormous on and off the field.

Paris Saint-Germain will be playing for their Champions League lives against Manchester United on Wednesday, with last season's runners-up knowing the costs of group-stage elimination could be enormous on and off the field. Anything less than victory at Old Trafford and the French champions could see their destiny slip out of their hands going into the last game in Group H. Neymar's penalty gave the Qatar-owned club victory over RB Leipzig last week, but Thomas Tuchel's team performed poorly and the coach's agitation when searching questions are put to him by the press suggest all is not well in Paris. PSG are top of Ligue 1, although their lead has been trimmed back in recent weeks following more disappointing displays. "There is no way we can play like that in Manchester, like we did in the second half," Tuchel warned after Saturday's 2-2 draw with Bordeaux. There will be potentially major consequences if they fail to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League, something they have managed in each of the last eight seasons since becoming regulars in the competition again after the Qatari takeover. Tuchel is out of contract after this season and sporting director Leonardo is not believed to be a huge fan of the German, even if he recently dismissed reports he was looking for a replacement. "Honestly the club has never thought about another coach to replace Tuchel. Now is the time to concentrate on our objectives and to stick together," Leonardo said in a question and answer session with supporters. Despite that, it is hard to imagine Tuchel surviving in the event of a European disaster, as being dumped out at the first hurdle would be a huge blow to PSG's prestige. Over the last decade it has become almost impossible for such ignominy to befall one of Europe's super clubs, a category into which PSG now fit as the fifth-richest in the world according to Deloitte's Football Money League. Barcelona have made it out of their group in every season since returning to the competition in 2004, while Real Madrid have got out of their group in every year since 1997. Bayern Munich have done so in every year since 2008. Manchester City have already secured an eighth consecutive appearance in the last 16, Juventus a seventh. - Financial repercussions - After revelling in the team's run to the final in Lisbon, PSG's Qatari owners would not take kindly to such a sporting slap in the face. Financially, the repercussions could be serious. PSG are looking at ways of extending the contracts of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, whose existing deals expire in 2022, but how can they in their current financial predicament? Documents released in 2018 by Football Leaks showed Neymar's after-tax salary to be 30 million euros ($35.8m) a year while Mbappe's salary was due to rise to 11 million euros this year. If PSG are prepared to offer whatever it takes to keep them, will they be able to invest in the other areas of the team that need upgrading? They have been hamstrung by the coronavirus crisis, suffering huge losses from the decision to cut short the last French season. RMC Sport recently reported that PSG were preparing for a loss of some 200 million euros this season, chiefly from lost gate receipts due to the pandemic. A group-stage exit from the Champions League would only make things worse. Just reaching the last 16 was worth 9.5 million euros last season, while reaching and winning the final was worth another 41.5 million euros, enough to cover the wages of Neymar and Mbappe for a year. UEFA is set to reduce prize money over the next few years because of the impact of the health crisis, but PSG can ill afford to miss out on these sums. The stakes in Manchester will be high.

More than just prestige on the line for PSG in Champions League

Paris Saint Germain manage to overturn the scores in a reverse fixture against Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16. The scores were 2-0 by the end of the game and the aggregate score was 3-2.

The game was played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus fears. Still, there were fans outside the Parc des Princes stadium cheering for their team.

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🔥🗣️ 
 
❤️💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICICESTPARIS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICICESTPARIS</a> <a href="https://t.co/FgbhCp2cRl">pic.twitter.com/FgbhCp2cRl</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1237866520815886336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Neymar outshined Borussia's teen sensation, Erling Braut Haaland, by scoring in both the legs.

Neymar and Juan Bernat's first-half goals sealed a quarterfinals spot for the first time since 2016, PSG failed to make it to the last 8 despite spending heavily on transfers (Neymar and Mbappe).

More than 3,000 PSG fans gathered near the stadium as the match was played behind closed doors due to virus fears. France has been one of the countries infected by coronavirus, 2,281 people have been infected whereas 48 people have died due to the novel virus.

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🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️...and breathe 
 
💙❤️ <a href="https://t.co/CGijCM0ct8">pic.twitter.com/CGijCM0ct8</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1237868680228159495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Fans gathered at the stadium after being granted by the police authorities, they lit fireworks chanting for the team. Chants could be heard during the match. A banner in the empty stadium read: "Our only virus is Paris SG."

The win for the French team was special as they faced a series of injuries before the match, losing out on their captain Thiago Silva. 
Silva was ruled out of the match after he did not fully recover from a hamstring injury.

Kylian Mbappe started from the bench due to sore throat.

Neymar's diving header in the 28th minute after a Di Maria free-kick marked his 35th goal in 57 matches for the club. Bernate doubled the lead by scoring in the 45+1 minutes.

Angel Di Maria picked up a yellow card after a brawl with Can in the last moments of the match, this means that he will be missing out the first leg of the quarterfinals in the Champions League.

Paris Saint Germain manage to overturn the scores in a reverse fixture against Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16. The scores were 2-0 by the end of the game and the aggregate score was 3-2.

Paris Saint Germain manage to overturn the scores in a reverse fixture against Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16. The scores were 2-0 by the end of the game and the aggregate score was 3-2. The game was played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus fears. Still, there were fans outside the Parc des Princes stadium cheering for their team. 🔥🗣️ ❤️💙#ICICESTPARIS pic.twitter.com/FgbhCp2cRl — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) March 11, 2020 × Neymar outshined Borussia's teen sensation, Erling Braut Haaland, by scoring in both the legs. Neymar and Juan Bernat's first-half goals sealed a quarterfinals spot for the first time since 2016, PSG failed to make it to the last 8 despite spending heavily on transfers (Neymar and Mbappe). More than 3,000 PSG fans gathered near the stadium as the match was played behind closed doors due to virus fears. France has been one of the countries infected by coronavirus, 2,281 people have been infected whereas 48 people have died due to the novel virus. 🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️...and breathe 💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/CGijCM0ct8 — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) March 11, 2020 × Fans gathered at the stadium after being granted by the police authorities, they lit fireworks chanting for the team. Chants could be heard during the match. A banner in the empty stadium read: "Our only virus is Paris SG." The win for the French team was special as they faced a series of injuries before the match, losing out on their captain Thiago Silva. Silva was ruled out of the match after he did not fully recover from a hamstring injury. Kylian Mbappe started from the bench due to sore throat. Neymar's diving header in the 28th minute after a Di Maria free-kick marked his 35th goal in 57 matches for the club. Bernate doubled the lead by scoring in the 45+1 minutes. Angel Di Maria picked up a yellow card after a brawl with Can in the last moments of the match, this means that he will be missing out the first leg of the quarterfinals in the Champions League.

Champions League: Neymar's dive knocks Dortmund out, PSG in quarterfinals

Kylian Mbappe hit a hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain cruised into the final of the French Cup with a thumping 5-1 win at Lyon on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mbappe-masterclass-fires-psg-to-4-0-win-over-dijon-283545">Mbappe masterclass fires PSG to 4-0 win over Dijon</a>

The World Cup winner took his goal tally in all competitions to 30 during a win that was eased by Fernando Marcal being sent off just before Neymar put the French champions ahead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-psg-manage-win-against-bordeaux-despite-neymars-red-card-282337">Ligue 1: PSG manage win against Bordeaux despite Neymar's red card</a>

The defeat Lyon ends a five-match unbeaten run that included an impressive 1-0 win over Juventus in the Champions League and the weekend's triumph over local rivals Saint-Etienne.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-saint-germain-president-nasser-al-khelaifi-charged-with-criminal-offences-281974">Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi charged with criminal offences</a>

"It was a solid, serious display full of concentration," said&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;coach Thomas Tuchel.

"After the Dortmund match (lost 2-1 in Germany), Mbappe has responded brilliantly. He uses his speed so intelligently ... he is in good form."

Mbappe equalised for the away side with a simple tap-in just three minutes after Martin Terrier had given the raucous home fans hope with a neat 11th-minute opener.

The 21-year-old was also key to&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;taking the lead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot.

Collecting the ball out on the left-wing, he casually saw off two Lyon defenders before floating over a cross to fellow forward Edinson Cavani, who controlled the ball only for Marcal to then handle before the Uruguay striker could let his shot go.

Neymar slotted home the subsequent spot-kick after confirmation of the handball by VAR, while Marcal had to leave the field after being handed his second red card.

"I prefer to say nothing about the penalty," said Lyon boss Rudi Garcia, who side face&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;in the League Cup final next month.&nbsp;

"When you are 10 against 11 playing such a strong team it's no longer a contest."

Mbappe made sure of the Parisian's visit to the Stade de France next month with a superb solo effort with 20 minutes left, embarrassing Bruno Guimaraes and Marcelo before calmly slotting past Anthony Lopes.

Pablo Sarabia added a fourth with a stinging low strike 11 minutes later, and Mbappe completed his hat-trick in stoppage time, tapping home Neymar's cross after good work on the left from the world's most expensive footballer.

Saint-Etienne and Rennes meet in the second semi-final on Thursday.

Kylian Mbappe hit a hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain cruised into the final of the French Cup with a thumping 5-1 win at Lyon on Wednesday. Also read: Mbappe masterclass fires PSG to 4-0 win over Dijon The World Cup winner took his goal tally in all competitions to 30 during a win that was eased by Fernando Marcal being sent off just before Neymar put the French champions ahead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot.

Kylian Mbappe hit a hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain cruised into the final of the French Cup with a thumping 5-1 win at Lyon on Wednesday. Also read: Mbappe masterclass fires PSG to 4-0 win over Dijon The World Cup winner took his goal tally in all competitions to 30 during a win that was eased by Fernando Marcal being sent off just before Neymar put the French champions ahead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot. Also read: Ligue 1: PSG manage win against Bordeaux despite Neymar's red card The defeat Lyon ends a five-match unbeaten run that included an impressive 1-0 win over Juventus in the Champions League and the weekend's triumph over local rivals Saint-Etienne. Also read: Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi charged with criminal offences "It was a solid, serious display full of concentration," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "After the Dortmund match (lost 2-1 in Germany), Mbappe has responded brilliantly. He uses his speed so intelligently ... he is in good form." Mbappe equalised for the away side with a simple tap-in just three minutes after Martin Terrier had given the raucous home fans hope with a neat 11th-minute opener. The 21-year-old was also key to PSG taking the lead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot. Collecting the ball out on the left-wing, he casually saw off two Lyon defenders before floating over a cross to fellow forward Edinson Cavani, who controlled the ball only for Marcal to then handle before the Uruguay striker could let his shot go. Neymar slotted home the subsequent spot-kick after confirmation of the handball by VAR, while Marcal had to leave the field after being handed his second red card. "I prefer to say nothing about the penalty," said Lyon boss Rudi Garcia, who side face PSG in the League Cup final next month. "When you are 10 against 11 playing such a strong team it's no longer a contest." Mbappe made sure of the Parisian's visit to the Stade de France next month with a superb solo effort with 20 minutes left, embarrassing Bruno Guimaraes and Marcelo before calmly slotting past Anthony Lopes. Pablo Sarabia added a fourth with a stinging low strike 11 minutes later, and Mbappe completed his hat-trick in stoppage time, tapping home Neymar's cross after good work on the left from the world's most expensive footballer. Saint-Etienne and Rennes meet in the second semi-final on Thursday.

French Cup: Mbappe treble over Lyon fires PSG into finals

Paris Saint Germain narrowly beat Bordeaux after a seven-goal thriller on Sunday. Despite Neymar Jr's red card, the Parisian side managed to beat Bordeaux 4-3 at Parc des Princes.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-champions-league-ucl-teen-sensation-haalands-brace-down-neymars-psg-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281462">Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles</a>

Bordeaux's Hwang Ui-jo hit the first goal on 18th minute giving the visiting side an edge over the hosts, but Edinson Cavani's goal in 25th goal equalised for the Parisian side. Cavani's goal was PSG's 200th goal. The first half ended with 2-2 scoreline after Marquinhos and Pablo scored during the injury time.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-saint-germain-president-nasser-al-khelaifi-charged-with-criminal-offences-281974"> Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi charged with criminal offences</a>

In the second half, Marquinhos scored his second goal on 63rd minute (3-2) and he was followed by another goal by Kylian Mbappe in the 69th minute (4-2). Bordeaux's Ruben Pardo scored the final goal for the team in the 83rd minute (4-3).

Marquinhos' brace, Cavani's 200th PSG goal and a goal by Kylian Mbappe put the Paris Saint Germain on 65 points from 26 games but they lost captain Thiago Silva to a muscle injury and Neymar picked up a straight red card for a late challenge in stoppage time.

The capital side remains Ligue 1 table-toppers, the gap with the second-placed Marseille increased to 13 points after they (Marseille) lost 3-1 to Nantes on Saturday.

PSG continues to fumble after their loss against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League.&nbsp;

Paris Saint Germain narrowly beat Bordeaux after a seven-goal thriller on Sunday. Despite Neymar Jr's red card, the Parisian side managed to beat Bordeaux 4-3 at Parc des Princes.

Paris Saint Germain narrowly beat Bordeaux after a seven-goal thriller on Sunday. Despite Neymar Jr's red card, the Parisian side managed to beat Bordeaux 4-3 at Parc des Princes. Also read: Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles Bordeaux's Hwang Ui-jo hit the first goal on 18th minute giving the visiting side an edge over the hosts, but Edinson Cavani's goal in 25th goal equalised for the Parisian side. Cavani's goal was PSG's 200th goal. The first half ended with 2-2 scoreline after Marquinhos and Pablo scored during the injury time. Also read: Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi charged with criminal offences In the second half, Marquinhos scored his second goal on 63rd minute (3-2) and he was followed by another goal by Kylian Mbappe in the 69th minute (4-2). Bordeaux's Ruben Pardo scored the final goal for the team in the 83rd minute (4-3). Marquinhos' brace, Cavani's 200th PSG goal and a goal by Kylian Mbappe put the Paris Saint Germain on 65 points from 26 games but they lost captain Thiago Silva to a muscle injury and Neymar picked up a straight red card for a late challenge in stoppage time. The capital side remains Ligue 1 table-toppers, the gap with the second-placed Marseille increased to 13 points after they (Marseille) lost 3-1 to Nantes on Saturday. PSG continues to fumble after their loss against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

Ligue 1: PSG manage win against Bordeaux despite Neymar's red card