How much Lionel Messi earns per week? Mind-boggling salary of PSG star and his net worth

<p>Paris St Germain forward Lionel Messi will miss Saturday's Ligue 1 trip to Bordeaux through injury but could feature for Argentina in this month's World Cup qualifiers, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old Messi, who signed from Barcelona in the close season, is still recovering from "knee and hamstring pains", the club said. He also sat out the 2-2 draw against RB Leipzig&nbsp;in the Champions League in midweek.</p>

<p>"Tomorrow he won't be available to play for the team. We will see if he can travel to play for his country. We hope he can go and play for his country and then return to us fit," Pochettino told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/xavi-hernandez-set-to-become-barcelonas-new-coach-as-al-sadd-and-barca-reach-agreement-426934">Xavi Hernandez set to become Barcelona's new coach as Al Sadd and Barca reach agreement</a></strong></p>

<p>Argentina travel to Uruguay on Nov. 12 and host Brazil four days later. Second-placed Argentina trail Brazil by six points.</p>

<p>Messi has had a frustrating start to his career in Paris, featuring in just eight games in all competitions.</p>

<p>PSG sit top of the league table with 31 points from 12 games, eight points ahead of second-placed Nice.</p>


Paris St Germain forward Lionel Messi will miss Saturday's Ligue 1 trip to Bordeaux through injury but could feature for Argentina in this month's World Cup qualifiers, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

Paris St Germain forward Lionel Messi will miss Saturday's Ligue 1 trip to Bordeaux through injury but could feature for Argentina in this month's World Cup qualifiers, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday. The 34-year-old Messi, who signed from Barcelona in the close season, is still recovering from "knee and hamstring pains", the club said. He also sat out the 2-2 draw against RB Leipzig in the Champions League in midweek. "Tomorrow he won't be available to play for the team. We will see if he can travel to play for his country. We hope he can go and play for his country and then return to us fit," Pochettino told reporters. ALSO READ | Xavi Hernandez set to become Barcelona's new coach as Al Sadd and Barca reach agreement Argentina travel to Uruguay on Nov. 12 and host Brazil four days later. Second-placed Argentina trail Brazil by six points. Messi has had a frustrating start to his career in Paris, featuring in just eight games in all competitions. PSG sit top of the league table with 31 points from 12 games, eight points ahead of second-placed Nice.

Lionel Messi to miss PSG trip to Bordeaux due to injury

<p>Out-of-favour Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav showed up in Paris to watch the UEFA Champions League match between Lionel Messi-starrer Paris Saint Germain and&nbsp;RB Leipzig, on October 20 (Wednesday)&nbsp;at the Parc des Princes. The match lived upto expectations as it went down the wire where Lionel Messi starred for PSG to take them to a thrilling 3-2 win, overcoming a 2-1 deficit at the start of the final half.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PSG got off to a flier as Kylian Mbappe scored the first goal within ten minutes of the start of play. Andre Silva, of RB Leipzig, levelled the scores before the first-half whereas Nordi Mukiele made it 2-1 in favour of RB Leipzig. Messi, however, came to his usual best in the end moments of the clash and his twin strikes saved Neymar-less PSG as they bounced back in style to claim the match 3-2, on matchday 3 of the group stage in UEFA Champions League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kuldeep, who is a football fanatic like most of the Team India players, shared pictures from his visit to the stadium -- where he witnessed an absolute thriller. He captioned the post, "Paris est magique #PSGRBL". Here's what he posted:</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inzamam-ul-haq-explains-why-virat-kohli-led-india-have-great-chance-of-winning-t20-wc-422675">Inzamam-ul-Haq explains why Virat Kohli-led India have 'great chance of winning T20 WC'</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVPw6-PPwzL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVPw6-PPwzL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVPw6-PPwzL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVPw6-PPwzL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kuldeep yadav 🇮🇳 (@kuldeep_18)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Talking about Kuldeep, he wasn't part of the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) playing XI in the first leg of IPL 2021, played in India. The wrist-spinner got injured and returned back to India during the second and final leg, in the UAE, of the recently-concluded 14th edition. He underwent a knee surgery last month and will be looking to make a strong comeback&nbsp;in India's XI across formats.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-lionel-messis-departure-puts-spotlight-on-rising-stars-ansu-fati-and-vinicius-jr-422628"><strong>El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr</strong></a></p>

<p>Team India, on the other hand, is currently in the UAE and gearing up for their tournament-opener in the T20 World Cup 2021.</p>


Out-of-favour Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav showed up in Paris to watch the UEFA Champions League match between Lionel Messi-starrer Paris Saint Germain and RB Leipzig, on October 20 (Wednesday) at the Parc des Princes.

Out-of-favour Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav showed up in Paris to watch the UEFA Champions League match between Lionel Messi-starrer Paris Saint Germain and RB Leipzig, on October 20 (Wednesday) at the Parc des Princes. The match lived upto expectations as it went down the wire where Lionel Messi starred for PSG to take them to a thrilling 3-2 win, overcoming a 2-1 deficit at the start of the final half. PSG got off to a flier as Kylian Mbappe scored the first goal within ten minutes of the start of play. Andre Silva, of RB Leipzig, levelled the scores before the first-half whereas Nordi Mukiele made it 2-1 in favour of RB Leipzig. Messi, however, came to his usual best in the end moments of the clash and his twin strikes saved Neymar-less PSG as they bounced back in style to claim the match 3-2, on matchday 3 of the group stage in UEFA Champions League. Kuldeep, who is a football fanatic like most of the Team India players, shared pictures from his visit to the stadium -- where he witnessed an absolute thriller. He captioned the post, "Paris est magique #PSGRBL". Here's what he posted: ALSO READ | Inzamam-ul-Haq explains why Virat Kohli-led India have 'great chance of winning T20 WC' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kuldeep yadav 🇮🇳 (@kuldeep_18) × Talking about Kuldeep, he wasn't part of the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) playing XI in the first leg of IPL 2021, played in India. The wrist-spinner got injured and returned back to India during the second and final leg, in the UAE, of the recently-concluded 14th edition. He underwent a knee surgery last month and will be looking to make a strong comeback in India's XI across formats. ALSO READ | El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr Team India, on the other hand, is currently in the UAE and gearing up for their tournament-opener in the T20 World Cup 2021.

Kuldeep Yadav turns up in Paris to watch UEFA Champions League match between Lionel Messi's PSG & RB Leipzig

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidVCVbgg11TVwi" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Lionel Messi, who is considered as the favourite to win the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ballon-dor-2021-nominees-ronaldo-messi-and-jorginho-in-contention-for-prestigious-award-check-full-list-419333">Ballon d'Or award</a> this year, revealed who he will vote for after France Football announced the names of 30 shortlisted players on Friday (October 8).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Six-time winner Messi and five-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo are on the list. Apart from the serial favourites, the competition includes Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, Karim Benzema, Jorginho and N'Golo Kante who are also considered as leading runners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Messi revealed his Ballon d’Or vote as he was quoted by France Football saying, "In my team, there are two for whom I will easily vote: Ney &amp; Kylian. And then Lewandowski, who has just had a great year. There's also Benzema who has been excellent."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-extremely-hard-to-take-lionel-messi-on-shocking-barcelona-exit-that-changed-his-plans-419455">'It was extremely hard to take': Lionel Messi on shocking Barcelona exit that 'changed' his plans</a></strong></p>

<p>The prestigious award was not handed out in 2020 due to the pandemic. There are also 20 women in the running for their own prize to be announced in Paris on November 29.</p>

<p>French champions PSG can boast Messi, a winner in the Copa America this summer, and teammates Mbappe and Neymar who last season took the ambitious club to the Champions League last four.</p>

<p>England, the Euro 2020 finalists, are represented by Harry Kane, Mason Mount, Phil Foden and Raheem Sterling.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-conspiracy-theories-influence-some-players-says-england-coach-gareth-southgate-419432">COVID-19 'conspiracy theories' influence some players, says England coach Gareth Southgate</a></strong></p>

<p>Among the women, 2019 winner Megan Rapinoe, whose United States team were knocked out of the Olympics in the quarter-finals, was missing from the nominations.</p>

<p>Christine Sinclair, of Olympic gold medal winning Canada, is in the running.</p>

<p>Champions League winners Barcelona are represented by Alexia Putellas, already voted UEFA's best player, and Jennifer Hermoso, joint top-scorer in the Champions League.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lionel Messi, who is considered as the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or award this year, revealed who he will vote for after France Football announced the names of 30 shortlisted players on Friday (October 8).

Lionel Messi, who is considered as the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or award this year, revealed who he will vote for after France Football announced the names of 30 shortlisted players on Friday (October 8). Six-time winner Messi and five-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo are on the list. Apart from the serial favourites, the competition includes Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, Karim Benzema, Jorginho and N'Golo Kante who are also considered as leading runners. However, Messi revealed his Ballon d’Or vote as he was quoted by France Football saying, "In my team, there are two for whom I will easily vote: Ney & Kylian. And then Lewandowski, who has just had a great year. There's also Benzema who has been excellent." ALSO READ | 'It was extremely hard to take': Lionel Messi on shocking Barcelona exit that 'changed' his plans The prestigious award was not handed out in 2020 due to the pandemic. There are also 20 women in the running for their own prize to be announced in Paris on November 29. French champions PSG can boast Messi, a winner in the Copa America this summer, and teammates Mbappe and Neymar who last season took the ambitious club to the Champions League last four. England, the Euro 2020 finalists, are represented by Harry Kane, Mason Mount, Phil Foden and Raheem Sterling. ALSO READ | COVID-19 'conspiracy theories' influence some players, says England coach Gareth Southgate Among the women, 2019 winner Megan Rapinoe, whose United States team were knocked out of the Olympics in the quarter-finals, was missing from the nominations. Christine Sinclair, of Olympic gold medal winning Canada, is in the running. Champions League winners Barcelona are represented by Alexia Putellas, already voted UEFA's best player, and Jennifer Hermoso, joint top-scorer in the Champions League. (With inputs from agencies)

Lionel Messi reveals his Ballon d'Or 2021 vote, says 'there are two for whom I will easily vote'

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidVCVbgg11TVwi" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Lionel Messi was supposed to sign a new five-year contract with La Liga giants FC Barcelona after his deal ran out at the end of June this year — a club that he had joined aged 13. However, in a bizarre turn of events, Messi had to leave the Spanish club due to "financial and structural obstacles" over the renewal of the deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi's extremely emotional farewell to his boyhood club was proof that he didn't want to leave Barca this past summer as he himself had said that he "never imagined leaving" and especially not the way it happened. But the Argentina forward said familiar faces have helped him to settle at Paris St Germain, a French club that he joined on a two-year contract.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-conspiracy-theories-influence-some-players-says-england-coach-gareth-southgate-419432">COVID-19 'conspiracy theories' influence some players, says England coach Gareth Southgate</a></strong></p>

<p>"I came back to Barcelona (from the Copa America in July) to prepare for the season, after taking advantage of the extra days of vacation that the coach (Ronald Koeman) had given me," Messi told France Football in an interview released on Saturday (October 9).</p>

<p>"I had in mind to sign my contract and to start training right away. I thought that everything was settled and that all that was missing was my signature (on the contract).</p>

<p>"But when I arrived in Barcelona, I was told that it was no longer possible, that I could not stay and that I had to find another club, because Barca could not afford to extend my contract. That changed my plans.</p>

<p>"It was extremely hard to take. To think that we would have to leave our home and that the family would have to change its routine," added the six-times Ballon d'Or winner.</p>

<p>Messi is Barcelona's all-time top scorer and appearance maker with 672 goals in 778 games in all competitions.</p>

<p><strong>Messi and Neymar reunion at PSG</strong></p>

<p>After joining PSG, Messi was reunited with Neymar, as he and the Brazilian played together for four seasons at Barcelona from 2013-17, and joined compatriots Leandro Paredes and Angel Di Maria and coach Mauricio Pochettino, also an Argentine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That was a big part of my decision because I knew I was coming to a new country and had to start from scratch. Knowing that I had friends in the dressing room made me think that things would be easier to adapt to," said Messi.</p>

<p>"And I was not wrong, because it was very easy to settle, especially because there are many players who speak Spanish, like me, and some friends like 'Ney', 'Lea' (Paredes), 'Fideo' (Di Maria), who helped me when I arrived."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/marcus-rashford-receives-honorary-doctorate-from-university-of-manchester-see-pics-419408">Marcus Rashford receives honorary doctorate from University of Manchester - See pics</a></strong></p>

<p>Messi forms, with Neymar and France striker Kylian Mbappe, one of the most formidable attacking lineups in the world, but he is aware they need to work on finding the perfect balance.</p>

<p>While Neymar and Messi have known each other for years, the Argentine and France striker Mbappe still need to build a relationship.</p>

<p>"With a player like him, it's easy to get along. Also, Kylian speaks perfect Spanish, so we have good exchanges off the pitch as well," said Messi, who has so far scored one goal in five appearances in all competitions for PSG.</p>

<p>"It makes things easier. Now, I've only been here a short time, so it's still a bit early to draw conclusions. But I'm sure it will work out well."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lionel Messi was supposed to sign a new five-year contract with La Liga giants FC Barcelona after his deal ran out at the end of June this year — a club that he had joined aged 13.

Lionel Messi was supposed to sign a new five-year contract with La Liga giants FC Barcelona after his deal ran out at the end of June this year — a club that he had joined aged 13. However, in a bizarre turn of events, Messi had to leave the Spanish club due to "financial and structural obstacles" over the renewal of the deal. Messi's extremely emotional farewell to his boyhood club was proof that he didn't want to leave Barca this past summer as he himself had said that he "never imagined leaving" and especially not the way it happened. But the Argentina forward said familiar faces have helped him to settle at Paris St Germain, a French club that he joined on a two-year contract. ALSO READ | COVID-19 'conspiracy theories' influence some players, says England coach Gareth Southgate "I came back to Barcelona (from the Copa America in July) to prepare for the season, after taking advantage of the extra days of vacation that the coach (Ronald Koeman) had given me," Messi told France Football in an interview released on Saturday (October 9). "I had in mind to sign my contract and to start training right away. I thought that everything was settled and that all that was missing was my signature (on the contract). "But when I arrived in Barcelona, I was told that it was no longer possible, that I could not stay and that I had to find another club, because Barca could not afford to extend my contract. That changed my plans. "It was extremely hard to take. To think that we would have to leave our home and that the family would have to change its routine," added the six-times Ballon d'Or winner. Messi is Barcelona's all-time top scorer and appearance maker with 672 goals in 778 games in all competitions. Messi and Neymar reunion at PSG After joining PSG, Messi was reunited with Neymar, as he and the Brazilian played together for four seasons at Barcelona from 2013-17, and joined compatriots Leandro Paredes and Angel Di Maria and coach Mauricio Pochettino, also an Argentine. "That was a big part of my decision because I knew I was coming to a new country and had to start from scratch. Knowing that I had friends in the dressing room made me think that things would be easier to adapt to," said Messi. "And I was not wrong, because it was very easy to settle, especially because there are many players who speak Spanish, like me, and some friends like 'Ney', 'Lea' (Paredes), 'Fideo' (Di Maria), who helped me when I arrived." ALSO READ | Marcus Rashford receives honorary doctorate from University of Manchester - See pics Messi forms, with Neymar and France striker Kylian Mbappe, one of the most formidable attacking lineups in the world, but he is aware they need to work on finding the perfect balance. While Neymar and Messi have known each other for years, the Argentine and France striker Mbappe still need to build a relationship. "With a player like him, it's easy to get along. Also, Kylian speaks perfect Spanish, so we have good exchanges off the pitch as well," said Messi, who has so far scored one goal in five appearances in all competitions for PSG. "It makes things easier. Now, I've only been here a short time, so it's still a bit early to draw conclusions. But I'm sure it will work out well." (With inputs from agencies)

'It was extremely hard to take': Lionel Messi on shocking Barcelona exit that 'changed' his plans

<p>Paris St Germain kept their perfect Ligue 1 record intact as they hammered promoted Clermont 4-0 with a brutal display on Saturday.<br />
<br />
In the absence of Lionel Messi and Neymar, who were not in the squad after returning late from international duty with Argentina and Brazil, Kylian Mbappe netted his fourth goal on his first appearance at the Parc des Princes since his failed transfer to Real Madrid.<br />
<br />
The France striker, who has just recovered from a calf injury, was a constant threat as he added to Ander Herrera`s first-half brace with Idrissa Gueye rounding if off after the hour.<br />
<br />
PSG, who travel to Club Brugge for their Champions League Group A opener on Wednesday, lead the standings on 15 points with Clermont down to fourth on eight points after their first defeat in their first season in the elite.<br />
<br />
"We didn`t concede a goal, it was very important against a team who had been playing so well since the beginning of the season," said PSG midfielder Danilo Pereira.<br />
<br />
Olympique de Marseille, who have a game in hand, moved up to third on 10 points after their 21-year-old Senegalese striker Ahmadou Bamba Dieng scored in both halves, also hitting the post twice, in a 2-0 win at Monaco.<br />
<br />
The principality side, who have already lost three matches, are 14th on four points.<br />
<br />
Earlier, the Parc des Princes crowd paid tribute to French film icon Jean-Paul Belmondo and former club defender Jean-Pierre Adams who both died this week with Messi in the stands.<br />
<br />
Clermont played their possession game early on but left space on the flanks and Achraf Hakimi made the most of it on the right, managing a powerful cross that was tipped away by Arthur Desmas, only for Herrera to head home in the 20th minute.<br />
<br />
The visitors continued to press and created danger in the area, but goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, playing his first game with PSG at the expense of Keylor Navas, proved solid.<br />
<br />
"It was my first game, it was a bit special and we got a perfect result after a good preparation," said the Italy keeper.<br />
<br />
"I was a bit emotional to play my first game for the club."<br />
<br />
Mauricio Pochettino`s side doubled the tally in the 31st minute as Mbappe`s cutback was deflected by Florent Ogier into the path of Herrera, who slammed the ball in for his third goal of the season.<br />
<br />
Mbappe, the only pure striker in the starting 11, extended PSG`s advantage 10 minutes into the second half, finishing off a counterattack after being played through by Julian Draxler.<br />
<br />
He was at it again 10 minutes later when his right-footed strike was parried by Desmas, but Gueye was lying in wait and headed into the empty net.</p>


Paris St Germain kept their perfect Ligue 1 record intact as they hammered promoted Clermont 4-0 with a brutal display on Saturday. In the absence of Lionel Messi and Neymar, who were not in the squad after returning late from international duty with Argentina and Brazil, Kylian Mbappe netted his fourth goal on his first appearance at the Parc des Princes since his failed transfer to Real Madrid.

Paris St Germain kept their perfect Ligue 1 record intact as they hammered promoted Clermont 4-0 with a brutal display on Saturday. In the absence of Lionel Messi and Neymar, who were not in the squad after returning late from international duty with Argentina and Brazil, Kylian Mbappe netted his fourth goal on his first appearance at the Parc des Princes since his failed transfer to Real Madrid. The France striker, who has just recovered from a calf injury, was a constant threat as he added to Ander Herrera`s first-half brace with Idrissa Gueye rounding if off after the hour. PSG, who travel to Club Brugge for their Champions League Group A opener on Wednesday, lead the standings on 15 points with Clermont down to fourth on eight points after their first defeat in their first season in the elite. "We didn`t concede a goal, it was very important against a team who had been playing so well since the beginning of the season," said PSG midfielder Danilo Pereira. Olympique de Marseille, who have a game in hand, moved up to third on 10 points after their 21-year-old Senegalese striker Ahmadou Bamba Dieng scored in both halves, also hitting the post twice, in a 2-0 win at Monaco. The principality side, who have already lost three matches, are 14th on four points. Earlier, the Parc des Princes crowd paid tribute to French film icon Jean-Paul Belmondo and former club defender Jean-Pierre Adams who both died this week with Messi in the stands. Clermont played their possession game early on but left space on the flanks and Achraf Hakimi made the most of it on the right, managing a powerful cross that was tipped away by Arthur Desmas, only for Herrera to head home in the 20th minute. The visitors continued to press and created danger in the area, but goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, playing his first game with PSG at the expense of Keylor Navas, proved solid. "It was my first game, it was a bit special and we got a perfect result after a good preparation," said the Italy keeper. "I was a bit emotional to play my first game for the club." Mauricio Pochettino`s side doubled the tally in the 31st minute as Mbappe`s cutback was deflected by Florent Ogier into the path of Herrera, who slammed the ball in for his third goal of the season. Mbappe, the only pure striker in the starting 11, extended PSG`s advantage 10 minutes into the second half, finishing off a counterattack after being played through by Julian Draxler. He was at it again 10 minutes later when his right-footed strike was parried by Desmas, but Gueye was lying in wait and headed into the empty net.

Ligue 1: Clinical PSG crush Clermont to keep perfect record intact

<p>Coach Mauricio Pochettino said he had not yet decided if Argentine forward Lionel Messi would be in Paris St Germain's squad for Sunday's Ligue 1 trip to Reims although he would probably be included.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old Messi, who signed a two-year deal with PSG with an option for a third year after his contract with Barcelona expired, has yet to feature in the squad since joining on Aug. 10.</p>

<p>"We need to analyse and we will decide later," Pochettino told a news conference on Saturday.</p>

<p>"They will probably be in the squad," he added, referring to Brazil striker Neymar, France's Kylian Mbappe and Messi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-start-life-without-cristiano-ronaldo-with-shock-loss-to-empoli-409077">Juventus start life without Cristiano Ronaldo with shock loss to Empoli</a></strong></p>

<p>PSG said later that the squad would be announced on Sunday morning.</p>

<p>Messi has not played since winning the Copa America with Argentina against Brazil on July 11.</p>

<p>"He is very motivated. He's a great professional who is adapting very fast to his new team mates and to a new context," said Pochettino.</p>

<p>"He has the capacity to adapt to a new league."</p>


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

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

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

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


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

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

Lionel Messi included in PSG squad for Reims Ligue 1 trip

<p>Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-likely-to-submit-bid-for-juventus-superstar-cristiano-ronaldo-reports-408699" hreflang="en">Manchester City likely to submit bid for Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo: Reports</a></p>

<p>Previously, the LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old terming it "not sufficient".&nbsp;</p>

<p>PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Official bid from Real Madrid for Kylian Mbappé still on the table. €170m plus €10m and this will be the final one. Negotiations will take place today between PSG and Real. ⚪️🇫🇷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadrid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mbapp%C3%A9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mbappé</a><br />
<br />
Real Madrid know that Mbappé is pushing. He only wants Real Madrid. Patience. <a href="https://t.co/FOj231gw6J">pic.twitter.com/FOj231gw6J</a></p>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1431015068335026181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.”</p>

<p>Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added.</p>

<p>Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Earlier, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.&nbsp;</p>


Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. ALSO READ: Manchester City likely to submit bid for Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo: Reports Previously, the LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old terming it "not sufficient". PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”. Official bid from Real Madrid for Kylian Mbappé still on the table. €170m plus €10m and this will be the final one. Negotiations will take place today between PSG and Real. ⚪️🇫🇷 #RealMadrid #Mbappé Real Madrid know that Mbappé is pushing. He only wants Real Madrid. Patience. pic.twitter.com/FOj231gw6J — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 26, 2021 × Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms. “Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.” Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added. 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. Earlier, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.

La Liga giants Real Madrid places new bid for PSG star Kylian Mbappe: Reports

<p>Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has&nbsp;rejected the offer for the 22-year-old.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-set-to-leave-manchester-city-in-2023-408398" hreflang="en">Pep Guardiola set to leave Manchester City in 2023</a></p>

<p>PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.”</p>

<p>Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added.</p>

<p>Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>According to reports, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old.

Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola set to leave Manchester City in 2023 PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”. Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms. “Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.” Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added. 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 of 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.

'Not sufficient': Paris Saint-Germain reject Real Madrid's massive bid for Kylian Mbappe

<p>France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe netted with a superb header to help Paris St Germain to a 4-2 win at Brest on Friday which lifted them to the top of Ligue 1 with a maximum nine points from three games.</p>

<p>PSG again showed scoring prowess as they have now netted 10 goals in the opening three games, and that is even before new signing Lionel Messi has made his highly-anticipated debut. Manager Mauricio Pochettino said there was still work to be done in order to make sure his side amounted to the sum of talented parts.</p>

<p>"We have a unit full of shining names and the main challenge is to gel them into a unit so that everyone is at the team's service," the Argentine told a news conference.</p>

<p>"It's difficult, you need work to get a strong team. We struggled a bit in the closing stages but I am happy that we came away with three points against a very good team."</p>

<p>Ander Herrera fired PSG ahead with a 23rd-minute volley before Mbappe made it 2-0 in the 36th when he powered his effort past home goalkeeper Marco Bizot from 10 metres after latching on to a rebound from Georginio Wijnaldum's shot.</p>

<p>Franck Honorat pulled one back for the home side with a crisp finish in the 42nd minute after a slick move, with Steve Mounie holding up the ball well to set up Romain Faivre who released Honorat with a clever back-heel.</p>

<p>The pace dropped after the break before midfielder Idrissa Gueye restored PSG's two-goal advantage in the 73rd minute with a rasping shot from 35 metres which beat Bizot inside the near post, although the keeper should have done better.</p>

<p>Brest missed a pair of chances in the 77th as visiting keeper Kaylor Navas parried a Ronael Pierre-Gabriel shot and Honorat rattled the woodwork with the rebound.</p>

<p>The visiting defence continued to look shaky and Mounie set up a tense finish when he reduced the arrears in the 85th minute as he drilled in his shot under Navas after another fine assist from Faivre.</p>

<p>PSG were forced to hang on in the closing stages before substitute Angel Di Maria sealed their win in stoppage time with a sublime lob from the edge of the penalty area as the visitors broke away after a Brest corner.</p>

<p>It was a second successive win for PSG without Messi, who has yet to feature for the French giants after joining them from Barcelona earlier this month.</p>

<p>Messi was presented to PSG fans before last Saturday's 4-2 home win over Strasbourg but was not in the squad either for that fixture or the win at Brest, having taken a month off after steering Argentina to the Copa America title in July.</p>

<p>On Saturday, Monaco are at home to Lens while champions Lille, who have taken one point from their opening two games, visit St Etienne.</p>


France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe netted with a superb header to help Paris St Germain to a 4-2 win at Brest on Friday which lifted them to the top of Ligue 1 with a maximum nine points from three games.

France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe netted with a superb header to help Paris St Germain to a 4-2 win at Brest on Friday which lifted them to the top of Ligue 1 with a maximum nine points from three games. PSG again showed scoring prowess as they have now netted 10 goals in the opening three games, and that is even before new signing Lionel Messi has made his highly-anticipated debut. Manager Mauricio Pochettino said there was still work to be done in order to make sure his side amounted to the sum of talented parts. "We have a unit full of shining names and the main challenge is to gel them into a unit so that everyone is at the team's service," the Argentine told a news conference. "It's difficult, you need work to get a strong team. We struggled a bit in the closing stages but I am happy that we came away with three points against a very good team." Ander Herrera fired PSG ahead with a 23rd-minute volley before Mbappe made it 2-0 in the 36th when he powered his effort past home goalkeeper Marco Bizot from 10 metres after latching on to a rebound from Georginio Wijnaldum's shot. Franck Honorat pulled one back for the home side with a crisp finish in the 42nd minute after a slick move, with Steve Mounie holding up the ball well to set up Romain Faivre who released Honorat with a clever back-heel. The pace dropped after the break before midfielder Idrissa Gueye restored PSG's two-goal advantage in the 73rd minute with a rasping shot from 35 metres which beat Bizot inside the near post, although the keeper should have done better. Brest missed a pair of chances in the 77th as visiting keeper Kaylor Navas parried a Ronael Pierre-Gabriel shot and Honorat rattled the woodwork with the rebound. The visiting defence continued to look shaky and Mounie set up a tense finish when he reduced the arrears in the 85th minute as he drilled in his shot under Navas after another fine assist from Faivre. PSG were forced to hang on in the closing stages before substitute Angel Di Maria sealed their win in stoppage time with a sublime lob from the edge of the penalty area as the visitors broke away after a Brest corner. It was a second successive win for PSG without Messi, who has yet to feature for the French giants after joining them from Barcelona earlier this month. Messi was presented to PSG fans before last Saturday's 4-2 home win over Strasbourg but was not in the squad either for that fixture or the win at Brest, having taken a month off after steering Argentina to the Copa America title in July. On Saturday, Monaco are at home to Lens while champions Lille, who have taken one point from their opening two games, visit St Etienne.

Kylian Mbappe strikes as Paris St Germain beat Brest to go top

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

<p>Lionel Messi Tuesday officially joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona. The football star has signed a two-year contract with the French club with an option of an additional year, PSG announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-a-new-adventure-for-all-five-of-us-says-lionel-messis-wife-404477" hreflang="en">Football: 'A new adventure for all five of us,' says Lionel Messi's wife</a></p>

<p>The 34-year-old forward will play along with&nbsp;former teammate Neymar Jr and French star Kylian Mbappe. However, the Brazilian winger will keep the number 10 Jersey, whereas Lionel Messi will don his old number 30 while playing for the club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain," he said in a statement on the club's website.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Paris Saint-Germain is delighted to announce the signing of Leo Messi on a two-year contract with an option of a third year.<a href="https://t.co/D5Qjq7PJfF">https://t.co/D5Qjq7PJfF</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGxMESSI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGxMESSI</a> ❤️💙 <a href="https://t.co/msJAnW01V5">pic.twitter.com/msJAnW01V5</a></p>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1425196979408281604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday, added.</p>

<p>"I know how talented the squad and the coaching staff are here.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS|&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>"I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes."</p>

<p>Lionel Messi will be unveiled by PSG at a press conference they have called for 11:00 am (0900 GMT) Wednesday.</p>

<p>Barcelona had to let go of their star after 21 years due to financial issues. They are carrying debts of 1.2 billion euros ($1.41 billion) and cannot register new signings because of their financial problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lionel Messi is among the most expensive footballers due to his stats and Paris Saint-Germain was the only side to have afforded a deal that is said to be around 35 million euros ($41 million) a year.</p>

<p>Messi, who came to Barcelona as a boy from Rosario and has left them as a six-time Ballon D'Or winner, has scored 672 goals in 778 appearances for the Spanish Club.</p>


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>Lionel&nbsp;Messi said on Wednesday that he is&nbsp;'extremely happy' after joining&nbsp;star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year.</p>

<p>"Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said&nbsp;Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes."</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CSaduMqoEg_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CSaduMqoEg_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CSaduMqoEg_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CSaduMqoEg_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Paris Saint-Germain (@psg)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>In pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-lionel-messi-to-sergio-ramos-paris-saint-germain-fifa-like-playing-xi-for-upcoming-ligue-1-season-404576" hreflang="en">From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for upcoming season</a></strong></p>

<p>The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time.</p>

<p>Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;as a player for the French soccer powerhouse.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🎙 President Nasser Al-Khelaïfi: “I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain and we are proud to welcome him to Paris, with his family. "<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGxMESSI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGxMESSI</a> <a href="https://t.co/RXclKJMoE8">https://t.co/RXclKJMoE8</a></p>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1425385858400718848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference.</p>

<p>French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally".</p>

<p>PSG wasted little time in targeting&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules.</p>

<p>Crowds of supporters thronged to the club's Parc des Princes stadium, chanting and setting off smoke flares.</p>

<p>Neymar and Mbappe were already the two most expensive soccer players in history, and the addition of&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;to Mauricio Pochettino's PSG line-up could rival the unstoppable triumvirate that he formed at Barcelona with Neymar and Luis Suarez.</p>

<p>Messi&nbsp;will wear the number 30 shirt, the club confirmed in a video posted on its Twitter feed, headlined "a new diamond in Paris".</p>

<p>Messi, who won four Champions Leagues and 10 domestic league titles with Barcelona, joins several other big names arriving at PSG on a free transfer this summer.</p>

<p>Spain defender Sergio Ramos was no longer wanted at Real Madrid, Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum had run down his contract with Liverpool and Italy's Euro 2020-winning goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma also joined after his contract with AC Milan ran out.</p>

<p>The arrival of&nbsp;Messi, whose last contract with Barcelona was worth a total of 555 million euros ($650 million) and reported to be the most lucrative in world sport, is also set to provoke a renewed new debate about UEFA's financial fair play rules.</p>

<p>Soccer's European governing body introduced the rules in 2009 in an attempt to restrict the power of free-spending owners to buy success, but their success is debatable.</p>

<p>The star-power of&nbsp;Messi, who has 245 million followers on Instagram, will be welcome news for Ligue 1 as a battle rages between broadcasters over the price of its television rights, crucial to the finances of the clubs.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

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

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

<p>Lionel Messi leaving Barcelona truly marks the end of an era in football. The Argentine who signed his first contract with Barcelona in 2000 on a napkin when he was 13 ended his ties with the club after two decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-to-leave-barcelona-due-to-financial-and-structural-obstacles-says-club-403279" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi to leave Barcelona due to 'financial and structural obstacles'</a></p>

<p>Several clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are on a red alert to hire the six-time Ballon D'Or winner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to football transfer guru, Fabrizio Romano, Paris Saint-Germain have already started direct talks with Lionel Messi and complete a fantastic transfer season for the French Club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Paris Saint-Germain have already signed some huge names in the world of football. They bought Real Madrid veteran Sergio Ramos, Hakimi and goalkeeper Donnarumma. Lionel Messi also has a chance to reunite with his former Barcelona teammate Neymar Jr. He could also play along with rising football star Kylian Mbappe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PSG already have made sure that they have a world-class defence, however, they will be looking to add Messi to bolster their attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi is the club's all-time top scorer and appearance maker with 672 goals in 778 games in all competitions. Messi was free to negotiate a transfer with other clubs after his deal ran out at the end of June, but Barcelona had always maintained he wanted to stay with the club. The 34-year-old was reported to sign a new five-year deal.&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi leaving Barcelona truly marks the end of an era in football. The Argentine who signed his first contract with Barcelona in 2000 on a napkin when he was 13 ended his ties with the club after two decades.

Lionel Messi leaving Barcelona truly marks the end of an era in football. The Argentine who signed his first contract with Barcelona in 2000 on a napkin when he was 13 ended his ties with the club after two decades. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi to leave Barcelona due to 'financial and structural obstacles' Several clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are on a red alert to hire the six-time Ballon D'Or winner. According to football transfer guru, Fabrizio Romano, Paris Saint-Germain have already started direct talks with Lionel Messi and complete a fantastic transfer season for the French Club. Paris Saint-Germain have already signed some huge names in the world of football. They bought Real Madrid veteran Sergio Ramos, Hakimi and goalkeeper Donnarumma. Lionel Messi also has a chance to reunite with his former Barcelona teammate Neymar Jr. He could also play along with rising football star Kylian Mbappe. PSG already have made sure that they have a world-class defence, however, they will be looking to add Messi to bolster their attack. Messi is the club's all-time top scorer and appearance maker with 672 goals in 778 games in all competitions. Messi was free to negotiate a transfer with other clubs after his deal ran out at the end of June, but Barcelona had always maintained he wanted to stay with the club. The 34-year-old was reported to sign a new five-year deal.

Football: PSG, Man City, Inter Miami? This club has already made a direct contact with Lionel Messi

<p>Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-owners-to-discuss-fan-share-ownership-383597" hreflang="en">Manchester United owners to discuss "fan share ownership"</a></p>

<p>The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a &nbsp;record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.02 million) from Barcelona. According to the reports, the footballer will extend his stay in the club by four years until 2026.</p>

<p>The striker was willing to leave the club in 2019 and sparked rumours of him rejoining his former club Barcelona. However, the reports calmed down after Paris made it into their maiden Champions League finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The French giants are also looking to extend Kylian Mbappe's contract as the terms in the 22-year-old's agreement will run out at the end of next season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his first PSG news conference in two years last week, Neymar said was 'really happy' at the club, hinting at a possible extension of his contract.</p>

<p>He was, however, unable to help the team reach a second successive Champions League final as PSG were knocked out in the semi-finals by Manchester City with a 4-1 aggregate defeat.</p>

<p>Neymar's time at PSG has been inconsistent, with the Brazilian gracing the fans with some moments of brilliance while winning three straight Ligue 1 titles. However, he has failed to make his impact truly felt in Champions League knockout ties.</p>

<p><em>(Inputs from Reuters)</em></p>


Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report. ALSO READ: Manchester United owners to discuss "fan share ownership" The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report. ALSO READ: Manchester United owners to discuss "fan share ownership" The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.02 million) from Barcelona. According to the reports, the footballer will extend his stay in the club by four years until 2026. The striker was willing to leave the club in 2019 and sparked rumours of him rejoining his former club Barcelona. However, the reports calmed down after Paris made it into their maiden Champions League finals. The French giants are also looking to extend Kylian Mbappe's contract as the terms in the 22-year-old's agreement will run out at the end of next season. In his first PSG news conference in two years last week, Neymar said was 'really happy' at the club, hinting at a possible extension of his contract. He was, however, unable to help the team reach a second successive Champions League final as PSG were knocked out in the semi-finals by Manchester City with a 4-1 aggregate defeat. Neymar's time at PSG has been inconsistent, with the Brazilian gracing the fans with some moments of brilliance while winning three straight Ligue 1 titles. However, he has failed to make his impact truly felt in Champions League knockout ties. (Inputs from Reuters)

Neymar Jr. set to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain: Reports

<p>Paris St Germain stayed in the hunt for a fourth successive Ligue 1 title after Mauro Icardi scored in the dying seconds of stoppage time to secure a dramatic 3-2 home win over St Etienne on Sunday.<br />
<br />
Icardi headed home a cross from fellow substitute Angel Di Maria to cap a frantic climax after the visitors took a 78th-minute lead and then levelled in the first minute of added time after Kylian Mbappe had turned the game PSG`s way.<br />
<br />
The result left PSG second in the standings on 69 points from 33 games, one behind leaders Lille who were held to a 1-1 draw by eighth-placed Montpellier on Friday.<br />
<br />
PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his team`s fighting spirit.<br />
<br />
"The most important thing is to show character and never give up, always keep fighting and believing that you can get the three points," he said.<br />
<br />
"We are all very happy and it was a good performance. I think we deserved to win but we suffered and it was a very emotional finale."<br />
<br />
Looking weary from Tuesday`s 1-0 home defeat by Bayern Munich which sent them through to the Champions League semi-finals on away goals, PSG struggled and missed chances against a packed St Etienne defence.<br />
<br />
Mbappe was off target three times and Pablo Sarabia hit the post with a free kick before the visitors punished the home side`s profligacy as Denis Bouanga superbly steered in a Miguel Trauco cross from the left.<br />
<br />
Mbappe equalised 30 seconds later with a deft finish from close range after controlling a lofted Ander Herrera pass and the France forward fired PSG ahead with an 87th-minute penalty after he was brought down by goalkeeper Etienne Green.<br />
<br />
The home side`s joy was short-lived, however, as Romain Hamouma levelled with a tap-in from two metres after PSG keeper Sergio Rico failed to deal with Bouanga`s shot from the edge of the penalty area.<br />
<br />
It looked like it was not going to be PSG`s day when Di Maria rattled the post with an inswinging corner but the Argentine curled in a cross from the right moments later for Icardi to head home.<br />
<br />
Third-placed AS Monaco, who are five points behind Lille, visit 16th-placed Girondins Bordeaux while Olympique Lyonnais, a further point adrift in fourth, take on second-bottom Nantes away later on Sunday.</p>


Paris St Germain stayed in the hunt for a fourth successive Ligue 1 title after Mauro Icardi scored in the dying seconds of stoppage time to secure a dramatic 3-2 home win over St Etienne on Sunday.

Paris St Germain stayed in the hunt for a fourth successive Ligue 1 title after Mauro Icardi scored in the dying seconds of stoppage time to secure a dramatic 3-2 home win over St Etienne on Sunday. Icardi headed home a cross from fellow substitute Angel Di Maria to cap a frantic climax after the visitors took a 78th-minute lead and then levelled in the first minute of added time after Kylian Mbappe had turned the game PSG`s way. The result left PSG second in the standings on 69 points from 33 games, one behind leaders Lille who were held to a 1-1 draw by eighth-placed Montpellier on Friday. PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his team`s fighting spirit. "The most important thing is to show character and never give up, always keep fighting and believing that you can get the three points," he said. "We are all very happy and it was a good performance. I think we deserved to win but we suffered and it was a very emotional finale." Looking weary from Tuesday`s 1-0 home defeat by Bayern Munich which sent them through to the Champions League semi-finals on away goals, PSG struggled and missed chances against a packed St Etienne defence. Mbappe was off target three times and Pablo Sarabia hit the post with a free kick before the visitors punished the home side`s profligacy as Denis Bouanga superbly steered in a Miguel Trauco cross from the left. Mbappe equalised 30 seconds later with a deft finish from close range after controlling a lofted Ander Herrera pass and the France forward fired PSG ahead with an 87th-minute penalty after he was brought down by goalkeeper Etienne Green. The home side`s joy was short-lived, however, as Romain Hamouma levelled with a tap-in from two metres after PSG keeper Sergio Rico failed to deal with Bouanga`s shot from the edge of the penalty area. It looked like it was not going to be PSG`s day when Di Maria rattled the post with an inswinging corner but the Argentine curled in a cross from the right moments later for Icardi to head home. Third-placed AS Monaco, who are five points behind Lille, visit 16th-placed Girondins Bordeaux while Olympique Lyonnais, a further point adrift in fourth, take on second-bottom Nantes away later on Sunday.

Ligue 1: Last-gasp Icardi goal boosts PSG title bid

<p>Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.</p>

<p>Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon.</p>

<p>It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side.</p>

<p>But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund.</p>

<p>Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties.</p>

<p>They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019.</p>

<p>There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss.</p>

<p>This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half.</p>

<p>"This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago.</p>

<h2>- 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave -</h2>

<p>The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg.</p>

<p>That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade.</p>

<p>In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase.</p>

<p>"We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out.</p>

<p>Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon.</p>

<p>PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining.</p>

<p>Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions.</p>

<p>The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid.</p>

<p>"Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport.</p>

<p>"We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."</p>


Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy. Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon. It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side. But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund. Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties. They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019. There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss. This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half. "This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago. - 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave - The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg. That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade. In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase. "We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out. Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon. PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining. Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions. The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid. "Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport. "We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."

PSG show their mettle with biggest Champions League scalp

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fce29abc-708b-4dc5-b513-d18bf7ad12ee}{135}" paraid="1823409209" >Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has reacted to PSG sporting director Leonardo's public interest on Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi,&nbsp;whose contract expires at the end of ongoing 2020-21 season.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{acd7e834-0daf-4255-b372-463602210671}{44}" paraid="1306928233" >While Pochettino played his cards close to his chest when asked over a potential move for Messi, the former Tottenham Hotspur boss said that "everyone dreams of having the best players with him."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fce29abc-708b-4dc5-b513-d18bf7ad12ee}{144}" paraid="896490706" >Some of the media reports have stated that Messi could be&nbsp;reunited&nbsp;with former Barcelona teammate Neymar at the Parc des Princes.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{2730b1b5-d613-490d-b346-1e21137f2490}{220}" paraid="1562997917" >"Everyone dreams of having the best players with him," Pochettino told Cadena Ser late on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{2730b1b5-d613-490d-b346-1e21137f2490}{220}" paraid="1562997917" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-messi-to-ramos-football-stars-who-run-out-of-contracts-in-2021-356962" hreflang="en">From Messi to Ramos: Football stars who run out of contracts in 2021</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4f6ef52b-4030-462b-8f45-69d4b30fe734}{127}" paraid="1089130484" >"I have huge respect for the players I have in my team but I must also have respect for players in other teams," the former Tottenham boss, who replaced Thomas Tuchel at the Parc des Princes at the start of this month, added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4f6ef52b-4030-462b-8f45-69d4b30fe734}{134}" paraid="1559611000" >Despite moving away from expressing public interest on Messi,&nbsp;Pochettinho&nbsp;said that he has a unique bond with Messi that existed between the two&nbsp;of them, "like love for Newell Old Boys", one of the clubs in Rosario in their homeland.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4f6ef52b-4030-462b-8f45-69d4b30fe734}{155}" paraid="1220952476" >"Both of us have come from there, I think it's something that strongly unites us, this passion for the red and black (Newell's club&nbsp;colours)."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4f6ef52b-4030-462b-8f45-69d4b30fe734}{155}" paraid="1220952476" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-has-gone-wrong-in-liverpools-title-defence-357895" hreflang="en">What has gone wrong in Liverpool's title defence?</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4f6ef52b-4030-462b-8f45-69d4b30fe734}{162}" paraid="1905909122" >&nbsp;Pochettino's comments come after PSG sporting director Leonardo, who had recently told France Football that&nbsp;"the top players like Messi will always be on PSG's radar.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4f6ef52b-4030-462b-8f45-69d4b30fe734}{183}" paraid="1480143824" >"But obviously now is not the time to talk nor to dream about that.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4f6ef52b-4030-462b-8f45-69d4b30fe734}{197}" paraid="692591667" >"Yet we are at the top table of those who are following the case closely."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4f6ef52b-4030-462b-8f45-69d4b30fe734}{204}" paraid="1465548832" >&nbsp;However, Pochettino played down reports in Spain linking France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe with a move to LaLiga giants Real Madrid.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{27a39475-ae46-460c-88d3-81638bd3212a}{168}" paraid="1861178022" >"I've no doubt about the fact that Kylian loves being in Paris," he said&nbsp;</p>


Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has reacted to PSG sporting director Leonardo's public interest on Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi, whose contract expires at the end of ongoing 2020-21 season.

Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has reacted to PSG sporting director Leonardo's public interest on Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi, whose contract expires at the end of ongoing 2020-21 season. While Pochettino played his cards close to his chest when asked over a potential move for Messi, the former Tottenham Hotspur boss said that "everyone dreams of having the best players with him." Some of the media reports have stated that Messi could be reunited with former Barcelona teammate Neymar at the Parc des Princes. "Everyone dreams of having the best players with him," Pochettino told Cadena Ser late on Tuesday. ALSO READ: From Messi to Ramos: Football stars who run out of contracts in 2021 "I have huge respect for the players I have in my team but I must also have respect for players in other teams," the former Tottenham boss, who replaced Thomas Tuchel at the Parc des Princes at the start of this month, added. Despite moving away from expressing public interest on Messi, Pochettinho said that he has a unique bond with Messi that existed between the two of them, "like love for Newell Old Boys", one of the clubs in Rosario in their homeland. "Both of us have come from there, I think it's something that strongly unites us, this passion for the red and black (Newell's club colours)." ALSO READ: What has gone wrong in Liverpool's title defence? Pochettino's comments come after PSG sporting director Leonardo, who had recently told France Football that "the top players like Messi will always be on PSG's radar. "But obviously now is not the time to talk nor to dream about that. "Yet we are at the top table of those who are following the case closely." However, Pochettino played down reports in Spain linking France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe with a move to LaLiga giants Real Madrid. "I've no doubt about the fact that Kylian loves being in Paris," he said

Will PSG sign Lionel Messi? Mauricio Pochettino opens up about the move

<p>Mauricio Pochettino's first match as Paris Saint-Germain coach ended in a 1-1 draw at Saint-Etienne on Wednesday as his new team slipped three points behind Ligue 1 leaders Lyon.</p>

<p>The defending league champions fell behind early on to Romain Hamouma's strike before Moise Kean levelled soon after, but laboured in the second half and failed to find a winner.</p>

<p>"Of course I'm disappointed because we're PSG, we want to win," Pochettino told Telefoot. "I'm happy with the effort made by the players, by their attitude."</p>

<p>The former Tottenham boss was only confirmed as Thomas Tuchel's successor on Saturday, four days after the German's sacking was officially announced.</p>

<p>But the scale of the task facing the former PSG defender was laid out in front of him at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard as the capital-city giants' title defence suffered another blow.</p>

<p>"This is just the beginning," added the 48-year-old Pochettino. "We have to get to know each other. It was difficult because the preparation was too short.</p>

<p>"It's positive but there are things to improve."</p>

<p>Lyon survived a late Lens comeback to extend their lead with a 3-2 win, with Memphis Depay's double proving crucial.</p>

<p>PSG did move into second, above Lille on goal difference, after Christophe Galtier's team slipped to a surprise 2-1 home loss to Angers.</p>

<p>Pochettino made just two changes to the final starting XI selected by Tuchel for the 4-0 win over Strasbourg before the winter break, with Moise Kean and Idrissa Gueye returning in place of Rafinha and Timothee Pembele.</p>

<p>PSG started well going forwards but looked vulnerable at the back and were made to pay in the 19th minute as Gueye carelessly lost possession on the edge of his own area.</p>

<p>Denis Bouanga had plenty of time to pick out Romain Hamouma, who tapped into the net.</p>

<p>But the visitors wasted little time in equalising as Kean repaid Pochettino's faith to score the first goal of the Argentinian's era, spinning and firing home after Marco Verratti's pass.</p>

<p>The Italian striker has now scored 10 goals for PSG since joining on loan from Everton in the close season.</p>

<p>But Les Verts, bidding to extend their unbeaten run to seven matches, continued to find gaping holes in the away defence and Keylor Navas had to make a smart, diving save to keep out Mathieu Debuchy's volley.</p>

<p>Paris dominated possession early in the second period, but Saint-Etienne had the better chances, with Bouanga denied by Navas and Hamouma having a penalty appeal turned down.</p>

<p>PSG started to pile on the pressure in the final 15 minutes, with Angel Di Maria forcing home goalkeeper Jessy Moulin into a smart low stop after Kylian Mbappe's clever dummy.</p>

<p>Substitute Pablo Sarabia wasted a golden late chance in injury time, blazing over with just Moulin to beat.</p>

<h2>- Depay fires Lyon further clear -</h2>

<p>At Groupama Stadium, Lyon raced into a three-goal lead over Lens through Depay's brace and a Steven Fortes own goal.</p>

<p>Rudi Garcia's OL, who led the top flight at Christmas for the first time since 2008, held on for a vital three points despite Florian Sotoca and Cheick Oumar Doucoure hitting back for Lens.</p>

<p>Lille, who were level on points with Lyon heading into the day, dropped to third as Romain Thomas scored twice in the first 10 minutes for Angers at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy.</p>

<p>Burak Yilmaz pulled one back before the interval but the away side held on.</p>

<p>Marseille boosted their title hopes, though, as Dimitri Payet's 80th-minute strike helped secure a 3-1 home success against Montpellier.</p>

<p>Andre-Villas Boas' men are fifth, but only eight points behind Lyon with two games in hand.</p>

<p>Earlier on Wednesday, former France coach Raymond Domenech's reign at 17th-placed Nantes started with a drab goalless draw against fourth-placed Rennes.</p>

<p>"We have laid the first stone," said Domenech, who led France to the 2006 World Cup final.</p>

<p>"Now we must continue to improve."</p>

<p>Monaco moved into fifth with a 5-2 victory at 10-man Lorient, with Aleksandr Golovin and Kevin Volland among the scorers.</p>


Mauricio Pochettino's first match as Paris Saint-Germain coach ended in a 1-1 draw at Saint-Etienne on Wednesday as his new team slipped three points behind Ligue 1 leaders Lyon.

Mauricio Pochettino's first match as Paris Saint-Germain coach ended in a 1-1 draw at Saint-Etienne on Wednesday as his new team slipped three points behind Ligue 1 leaders Lyon. The defending league champions fell behind early on to Romain Hamouma's strike before Moise Kean levelled soon after, but laboured in the second half and failed to find a winner. "Of course I'm disappointed because we're PSG, we want to win," Pochettino told Telefoot. "I'm happy with the effort made by the players, by their attitude." The former Tottenham boss was only confirmed as Thomas Tuchel's successor on Saturday, four days after the German's sacking was officially announced. But the scale of the task facing the former PSG defender was laid out in front of him at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard as the capital-city giants' title defence suffered another blow. "This is just the beginning," added the 48-year-old Pochettino. "We have to get to know each other. It was difficult because the preparation was too short. "It's positive but there are things to improve." Lyon survived a late Lens comeback to extend their lead with a 3-2 win, with Memphis Depay's double proving crucial. PSG did move into second, above Lille on goal difference, after Christophe Galtier's team slipped to a surprise 2-1 home loss to Angers. Pochettino made just two changes to the final starting XI selected by Tuchel for the 4-0 win over Strasbourg before the winter break, with Moise Kean and Idrissa Gueye returning in place of Rafinha and Timothee Pembele. PSG started well going forwards but looked vulnerable at the back and were made to pay in the 19th minute as Gueye carelessly lost possession on the edge of his own area. Denis Bouanga had plenty of time to pick out Romain Hamouma, who tapped into the net. But the visitors wasted little time in equalising as Kean repaid Pochettino's faith to score the first goal of the Argentinian's era, spinning and firing home after Marco Verratti's pass. The Italian striker has now scored 10 goals for PSG since joining on loan from Everton in the close season. But Les Verts, bidding to extend their unbeaten run to seven matches, continued to find gaping holes in the away defence and Keylor Navas had to make a smart, diving save to keep out Mathieu Debuchy's volley. Paris dominated possession early in the second period, but Saint-Etienne had the better chances, with Bouanga denied by Navas and Hamouma having a penalty appeal turned down. PSG started to pile on the pressure in the final 15 minutes, with Angel Di Maria forcing home goalkeeper Jessy Moulin into a smart low stop after Kylian Mbappe's clever dummy. Substitute Pablo Sarabia wasted a golden late chance in injury time, blazing over with just Moulin to beat. - Depay fires Lyon further clear - At Groupama Stadium, Lyon raced into a three-goal lead over Lens through Depay's brace and a Steven Fortes own goal. Rudi Garcia's OL, who led the top flight at Christmas for the first time since 2008, held on for a vital three points despite Florian Sotoca and Cheick Oumar Doucoure hitting back for Lens. Lille, who were level on points with Lyon heading into the day, dropped to third as Romain Thomas scored twice in the first 10 minutes for Angers at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Burak Yilmaz pulled one back before the interval but the away side held on. Marseille boosted their title hopes, though, as Dimitri Payet's 80th-minute strike helped secure a 3-1 home success against Montpellier. Andre-Villas Boas' men are fifth, but only eight points behind Lyon with two games in hand. Earlier on Wednesday, former France coach Raymond Domenech's reign at 17th-placed Nantes started with a drab goalless draw against fourth-placed Rennes. "We have laid the first stone," said Domenech, who led France to the 2006 World Cup final. "Now we must continue to improve." Monaco moved into fifth with a 5-2 victory at 10-man Lorient, with Aleksandr Golovin and Kevin Volland among the scorers.

PSG held in 'disappointed' Pochettino's first match, Lyon extend lead

<p>French giants Paris Saint-Germain have officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach on Saturday. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style". &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spurs-star-son-heung-min-scores-100-goals-for-the-club-354181" hreflang="en">Spurs star Son Heung-min scores 100 goals for the club</a></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-recalls-meeting-maradona-says-he-was-a-poet-on-field-354085" hreflang="en">Pope recalls meeting Maradona, says ‘he was a poet on field’</a><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Pochettino has played for the club from 2001 to 2003 and said: "This club has always held a special place in my heart. I have wonderful memories, especially of the unique atmosphere of the Parc des Princes."</p>

<p>"I return to the club today with a lot of ambition and humility, and am eager to work with some of the world's most talented players," Pochettino said, adding he would do his utmost "to give our team the combative and attacking playing identity that Parisian fans have always loved."</p>

<p>French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018.</p>

<p>"After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.</p>


French giants Paris Saint-Germain have officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach on Saturday. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style".

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach on Saturday. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style". Also read: Spurs star Son Heung-min scores 100 goals for the club 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." Also read: Pope recalls meeting Maradona, says ‘he was a poet on field’ Pochettino has played for the club from 2001 to 2003 and said: "This club has always held a special place in my heart. I have wonderful memories, especially of the unique atmosphere of the Parc des Princes." "I return to the club today with a lot of ambition and humility, and am eager to work with some of the world's most talented players," Pochettino said, adding he would do his utmost "to give our team the combative and attacking playing identity that Parisian fans have always loved." French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. "After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.

Mauricio Pochettino appointed as Paris Saint-Germain head coach

<p>French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes.</p>

<p>"After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.</p>

<p>Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is a heavy favourite to take over the charge as the next PSG coach.</p>

<p>Tuchel, whose sacking at PSG was widely reported last week but has been officially confirmed on Tuesday, managed PSG in 127 matches (all competitions) with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Club Statement <a href="https://t.co/RQHs4iwNKR">https://t.co/RQHs4iwNKR</a></p>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1343869369256972292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&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></strong></p>

<p>Tuchel’s trophy cabinet at PSG featured two Ligue 1 titles as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020. The former Borussia Dortmund manager also guided PSG to their first-ever UEFA Champions League final in August 2019, where PSG were strolled to defeat by ultimate winners Bayern Munich 1-0.</p>

<p>Despite managing the superstar-filled PSG squad including the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe among others, Tuchel had reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about lack of recognition following PSG’s first-ever Champions League final appearance.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-in-new-controversy-over-new-year-party-rumors-353095" hreflang="en">Neymar in new controversy over New Year party rumors</a></strong></p>

<p>"I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi.</p>

<p>"Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future."</p>

<p>PSG is likely to name their next manager soon with Pochettino likely to take over the charge at Parc des Princes.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes.

French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes. "After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement. Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is a heavy favourite to take over the charge as the next PSG coach. Tuchel, whose sacking at PSG was widely reported last week but has been officially confirmed on Tuesday, managed PSG in 127 matches (all competitions) with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats. Club Statement https://t.co/RQHs4iwNKR — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) December 29, 2020 × ALSO READ: From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG Tuchel’s trophy cabinet at PSG featured two Ligue 1 titles as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020. The former Borussia Dortmund manager also guided PSG to their first-ever UEFA Champions League final in August 2019, where PSG were strolled to defeat by ultimate winners Bayern Munich 1-0. Despite managing the superstar-filled PSG squad including the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe among others, Tuchel had reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about lack of recognition following PSG’s first-ever Champions League final appearance. ALSO READ: Neymar in new controversy over New Year party rumors "I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi. "Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future." PSG is likely to name their next manager soon with Pochettino likely to take over the charge at Parc des Princes.

PSG officially terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>PSG’s defeat in the UCL final against Bayern Munich, added with poor Ligue 1 form, has aided in Tuchel’s sacking as head coach of PSG.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-rivals-to-clash-in-league-cup-semis-351982" hreflang="en">Manchester rivals to clash in League Cup semis</a></strong></p>

<p>Tuchel was informed about the development in Paris after guiding PSG to a 4-0 win over Strasbourg last night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Massimiliano Allegri available, PSG went ahead and sacked Tuchel.</p>

<p>Both Allegri and Pochettino are favourites to replace Tuchel at Parc des Princes. While Allegri stepped down from Juventus in 2018 after winning five Serie A trophies in a row, Pochettino has been out of work since being removed from his role at Tottenham Hotspur.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-star-diego-maradonas-autopsy-shows-no-drink-or-illegal-drugs-351897" hreflang="en">Argentina star Diego Maradona's autopsy shows no drink or illegal drugs</a></strong></p>

<p>It would be interesting to see what the future lies for Tuchel, who is relatively a young manager and has done well for both his previous clubs Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.&nbsp;</p>


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.

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. PSG’s defeat in the UCL final against Bayern Munich, added with poor Ligue 1 form, has aided in Tuchel’s sacking as head coach of PSG. ALSO READ: Manchester rivals to clash in League Cup semis Tuchel was informed about the development in Paris after guiding PSG to a 4-0 win over Strasbourg last night. With the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Massimiliano Allegri available, PSG went ahead and sacked Tuchel. Both Allegri and Pochettino are favourites to replace Tuchel at Parc des Princes. While Allegri stepped down from Juventus in 2018 after winning five Serie A trophies in a row, Pochettino has been out of work since being removed from his role at Tottenham Hotspur. ALSO READ: Argentina star Diego Maradona's autopsy shows no drink or illegal drugs It would be interesting to see what the future lies for Tuchel, who is relatively a young manager and has done well for both his previous clubs Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.

Paris Saint-Germain sack Thomas Tuchel; Pochettino, Allegri favourites to take charge

<p>French giants Paris Saint-Germain have told their stores around the French capital to gear up for a growth in business around shirt sales as PSG grow confident of signing Lionel Messi from Barcelona on a free transfer in the summer transfer window of 2021, according to Football Transfers.</p>

<p>Messi, in 2020, publicly cleared that he is unhappy at Barcelona after staying at Camp Nou for two decades. He was on the verge of leaving Barcelona in summer before legal obligations made him to stay at the Catalan club.</p>

<p>The six-time Ballon d’Or winner is out of contract at the end of 2020-21 season and is likely to not pen a new deal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/under-fire-arteta-vows-to-stop-arsenal-blip-349985" hreflang="en">Under-fire Arteta vows to stop Arsenal 'blip'</a></strong></p>

<p>Barcelona officials have admitted that Messi will require to take a pay cut if he wants to remain at the club with their poor run of form on the pitch pushing Messi away from the Blaugrana.</p>

<p>PSG, along with Manchester City are one of the two clubs ready to pounce on Messi if he decides to move next summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PSG have told their partner stores to get ready for a flood of interest ahead of the once in a lifetime deal.</p>

<p>However, it would be interesting to see whether Neymar leaves his no. 10 jersey for Messi if PSG manage to sign the Argentine.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-taking-the-knee-to-joining-protests-athletes-who-contributed-to-black-lives-matter-movement-349554" hreflang="en">From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement</a></strong></p>

<p>PSG signing Messi would mean that the French club would be able to field the blockbuster troika of Neymar, Mbappe and Messi and fight more for their dream of lifting the UEFA Champions League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before that, PSG will have to face Messi in Barcelona jersey after the two teams were pitted against each other in the Round of 16 of UEFA Champions League 2020-21 season.</p>


French giants Paris Saint-Germain have told their stores around the French capital to gear up for a growth in business around shirt sales as PSG grow confident of signing Lionel Messi from Barcelona on a free transfer in the summer transfer window of 2021, according to Football Transfers.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have told their stores around the French capital to gear up for a growth in business around shirt sales as PSG grow confident of signing Lionel Messi from Barcelona on a free transfer in the summer transfer window of 2021, according to Football Transfers. Messi, in 2020, publicly cleared that he is unhappy at Barcelona after staying at Camp Nou for two decades. He was on the verge of leaving Barcelona in summer before legal obligations made him to stay at the Catalan club. The six-time Ballon d’Or winner is out of contract at the end of 2020-21 season and is likely to not pen a new deal. ALSO READ: Under-fire Arteta vows to stop Arsenal 'blip' Barcelona officials have admitted that Messi will require to take a pay cut if he wants to remain at the club with their poor run of form on the pitch pushing Messi away from the Blaugrana. PSG, along with Manchester City are one of the two clubs ready to pounce on Messi if he decides to move next summer. PSG have told their partner stores to get ready for a flood of interest ahead of the once in a lifetime deal. However, it would be interesting to see whether Neymar leaves his no. 10 jersey for Messi if PSG manage to sign the Argentine. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement PSG signing Messi would mean that the French club would be able to field the blockbuster troika of Neymar, Mbappe and Messi and fight more for their dream of lifting the UEFA Champions League. Before that, PSG will have to face Messi in Barcelona jersey after the two teams were pitted against each other in the Round of 16 of UEFA Champions League 2020-21 season.

Lionel Messi to PSG? French club tell stores to be ready for blockbuster announcement

<p>Kylian Mbappe scored from the penalty spot as Paris Saint-Germain eased to their seventh straight Ligue 1 win on Saturday, beating Nantes 3-0 away to move provisionally three points clear at the top of the table.</p>

<p>All the goals came in the second half at the Stade de la Beaujoire, with Ander Herrera opening the scoring two minutes after the restart and Mbappe converting a 65th-minute spot-kick before Pablo Sarabia secured the points late on.</p>

<p>PSG have now taken maximum points since starting the season with back-to-back defeats and the reigning champions are three clear of Lille and Rennes at the summit.</p>

<p>Lille, who are unbeaten, can rejoin the club from the capital at the top if they beat Lyon on Sunday. Rennes beat Brest 2-1 on Saturday.</p>

<p>"I am very happy. We made lots of changes because we felt it was necessary. We don't expect things to be perfect and spectacular all the time," said Paris coach Thomas Tuchel.</p>

<p>He made six changes to his line-up following the 2-0 midweek win at Istanbul Basaksehir in the Champions League, with Neymar one of those missing after suffering an adductor injury that is expected to keep him out until the upcoming international break.</p>

<p>However Nantes, whose game at Lens last weekend was called off following a coronavirus outbreak in their opponents' squad, were missing an entire back four here, including three to Covid-19.</p>

<p>Sarabia hit the post early on for the visitors in this game, played behind closed doors after France returned to a full national lockdown in an attempt to stem a surge in coronavirus cases.</p>

<p>Nigerian winger Moses Simon then missed an open goal for Nantes, somehow failing to turn in Randal Kolo Muani's assist.</p>

<h2>- 'No injury' for Kean, Mbappe -</h2>

<p>Kolo Muani then curled a shot agonisingly wide after a Herrera slip had let Nantes in, before PSG took off Moise Kean -- scorer of four goals in the previous two games -- at the break.</p>

<p>The league leaders got the breakthrough at the start of the second half when Mbappe picked out the former Manchester United midfielder Herrera to fire home.</p>

<p>Mbappe, who moved from the left wing to a more central role in the second half, then benefited from a very soft penalty award when he went down under pressure from Jean-Charles Castelletto.</p>

<p>The World Cup winner stroked home the penalty for his seventh league goal of the season, all of which have come in the last six matches.</p>

<p>He was then withdrawn and headed straight down the tunnel clutching his right hamstring, but Tuchel said it was nothing to worry about ahead of Wednesday's key Champions League clash with RB Leipzig in Germany.</p>

<p>"It is just fatigue. It's not an injury," said Tuchel. "The same for Kean. He had just taken a few knocks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just before Mbappe went off, Nantes won a penalty of their own when Colin Dagba fouled Marcus Coco in the box, but Abdoul Kader Bamba's effort from 12 yards was saved by Keylor Navas.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>- Rennes back on track before Chelsea -</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>PSG have conceded just one goal in their seven-game winning run, while Sarabia chipped in after pouncing on Imran Louza's back-pass to make it 23 goals scored in that time.</p>

<p>Earlier Rennes got back on track by coming from behind to beat Brest as they prepare to go to Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek.</p>

<p>Defensive duo Damien Da Silva and Nayef Aguerd got the goals for Rennes after Franck Honorat had given the visitors the lead at Roazhon Park in a Brittany derby.</p>

<p>A third-place finish in the last, curtailed French season allowed Rennes to qualify for the Champions League for the first time, but they have taken just one point from their first two group games, a 1-1 draw with Russians Krasnodar being followed by a 1-0 loss away to Sevilla in midweek.</p>

<p>They face Chelsea in London on Wednesday, a game which will be missed by teenage France midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, who is injured and also played no part against Brest.</p>


Kylian Mbappe scored from the penalty spot as Paris Saint-Germain eased to their seventh straight Ligue 1 win on Saturday, beating Nantes 3-0 away to move provisionally three points clear at the top of the table.

Kylian Mbappe scored from the penalty spot as Paris Saint-Germain eased to their seventh straight Ligue 1 win on Saturday, beating Nantes 3-0 away to move provisionally three points clear at the top of the table. All the goals came in the second half at the Stade de la Beaujoire, with Ander Herrera opening the scoring two minutes after the restart and Mbappe converting a 65th-minute spot-kick before Pablo Sarabia secured the points late on. PSG have now taken maximum points since starting the season with back-to-back defeats and the reigning champions are three clear of Lille and Rennes at the summit. Lille, who are unbeaten, can rejoin the club from the capital at the top if they beat Lyon on Sunday. Rennes beat Brest 2-1 on Saturday. "I am very happy. We made lots of changes because we felt it was necessary. We don't expect things to be perfect and spectacular all the time," said Paris coach Thomas Tuchel. He made six changes to his line-up following the 2-0 midweek win at Istanbul Basaksehir in the Champions League, with Neymar one of those missing after suffering an adductor injury that is expected to keep him out until the upcoming international break. However Nantes, whose game at Lens last weekend was called off following a coronavirus outbreak in their opponents' squad, were missing an entire back four here, including three to Covid-19. Sarabia hit the post early on for the visitors in this game, played behind closed doors after France returned to a full national lockdown in an attempt to stem a surge in coronavirus cases. Nigerian winger Moses Simon then missed an open goal for Nantes, somehow failing to turn in Randal Kolo Muani's assist. - 'No injury' for Kean, Mbappe - Kolo Muani then curled a shot agonisingly wide after a Herrera slip had let Nantes in, before PSG took off Moise Kean -- scorer of four goals in the previous two games -- at the break. The league leaders got the breakthrough at the start of the second half when Mbappe picked out the former Manchester United midfielder Herrera to fire home. Mbappe, who moved from the left wing to a more central role in the second half, then benefited from a very soft penalty award when he went down under pressure from Jean-Charles Castelletto. The World Cup winner stroked home the penalty for his seventh league goal of the season, all of which have come in the last six matches. He was then withdrawn and headed straight down the tunnel clutching his right hamstring, but Tuchel said it was nothing to worry about ahead of Wednesday's key Champions League clash with RB Leipzig in Germany. "It is just fatigue. It's not an injury," said Tuchel. "The same for Kean. He had just taken a few knocks." Just before Mbappe went off, Nantes won a penalty of their own when Colin Dagba fouled Marcus Coco in the box, but Abdoul Kader Bamba's effort from 12 yards was saved by Keylor Navas. - Rennes back on track before Chelsea - PSG have conceded just one goal in their seven-game winning run, while Sarabia chipped in after pouncing on Imran Louza's back-pass to make it 23 goals scored in that time. Earlier Rennes got back on track by coming from behind to beat Brest as they prepare to go to Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek. Defensive duo Damien Da Silva and Nayef Aguerd got the goals for Rennes after Franck Honorat had given the visitors the lead at Roazhon Park in a Brittany derby. A third-place finish in the last, curtailed French season allowed Rennes to qualify for the Champions League for the first time, but they have taken just one point from their first two group games, a 1-1 draw with Russians Krasnodar being followed by a 1-0 loss away to Sevilla in midweek. They face Chelsea in London on Wednesday, a game which will be missed by teenage France midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, who is injured and also played no part against Brest.

Mbappe on target as PSG win without injured Neymar

<p>With as many as five players sent off following a mass brawl in Ligue 1 match between arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain and Olymique Marseille, Brazilian megastar Neymar claimed that he had been victim of racism on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Neymar, who was one of the players to be sent off, took to social media platform Twitter to post a series of furious tweets as the PSG forward appeared to accuse Alvaro Gonzales of calling him a “monkey” after he was shown a red card in injury time for slapping Marseille defender on the back of the head.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Look at the racism. That's why I hit him," Neymar, who was returning from coronavirus quarantine, said as he left the pitch. Gonzalez went on to deny making a racist comment.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-be-a-grand-slam-champion-says-zverev-after-us-open-loss-327374" hreflang="en">'I will be a Grand Slam champion,' says Zverev after US Open loss</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Neymar was talking about racism ‼️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGOM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGOM</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/AJnzuoSB9F">pic.twitter.com/AJnzuoSB9F</a></p>
— SnapGoal (@SnapGoal) <a href="https://twitter.com/SnapGoal/status/1305254831079251972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"The only regret I have is not hitting this idiot in the face," Neymar, the world's most expensive player, tweeted after the game.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="pt">Único arrependimento que tenho é por não ter dado na cara desse babaca</p>
— Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) <a href="https://twitter.com/neymarjr/status/1305262756459876358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Neymar was dismissed by the referee after a VAR check whereas his teammates Layvin Kurzawa and Leando Pareder were also sent off. For Marseille, Dario Benedetto and defender Jorfan Amavi were given the marching orders by the referee.</p>

<p>Neymar, on Twitter, questioned the referees that if they can see his aggression then why can’t they pull up the guy who called him monkey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pride-pain-and-a-schumacher-ferrari-celebrate-1000th-grand-prix-race-327266" hreflang="en">Pride, pain and a Schumacher: Ferrari celebrate 1,000th Grand Prix race</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We stand by you Neymar ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/FWdDB9dAEh">pic.twitter.com/FWdDB9dAEh</a></p>
— Sakanelli🐐|Free Aouar💉 (@AFC_Sakanelli) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFC_Sakanelli/status/1305282918806294528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's easy for VAR to show my 'aggression'. 'Now I'd like to them to show the image of the racist who called me a 'MONKEY SON OF A B***H. I'd really like that!" Neymar tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="pt">VAR pegar a minha “agressão” é mole ... agora eu quero ver pegar a imagem do racista me chamando de “MONO HIJO DE PUTA” (macaco filha da puta)... isso eu quero ver!<br />
E aí? CARRETILHA vc me pune.. CASCUDO sou expulso... e eles? E aí ?</p>
— Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) <a href="https://twitter.com/neymarjr/status/1305275338390466561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ancelotti-confident-new-look-everton-can-shake-up-top-six-after-spurs-win-327379" hreflang="en">Ancelotti confident new-look Everton can shake up top six after Spurs win</a></strong></p>

<p>PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said that Neymar told him about the racist insult but added that he didn’t hear anything on the pitch. While Marseille coach Andre-Villas Boas said there’s no place for racism and they will have another look at the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Neymar "told me it was a racist insult, but I didn't hear anything on the pitch", PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said.</p>

<p>"There is no place for racism in football but I don't think that was the case," Marseille coach Andre Villas-Boas told Telefoot. "We'll have to look at it."</p>

<p>According to Telefoot, Gonzalez responded “what racism?” when asked about the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There's no place for racism," the Spaniard wrote, adding: "Sometimes you have to learn to lose and take it on the field."</p>

<p>PSG lost the match by 1-0 after a goal from Florian Thauvin in the 31st minute of the match.</p>


With as many as five players sent off following a mass brawl in Ligue 1 match between arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain and Olymique Marseille, Brazilian megastar Neymar claimed that he had been victim of racism on Sunday.

With as many as five players sent off following a mass brawl in Ligue 1 match between arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain and Olymique Marseille, Brazilian megastar Neymar claimed that he had been victim of racism on Sunday. Neymar, who was one of the players to be sent off, took to social media platform Twitter to post a series of furious tweets as the PSG forward appeared to accuse Alvaro Gonzales of calling him a “monkey” after he was shown a red card in injury time for slapping Marseille defender on the back of the head. "Look at the racism. That's why I hit him," Neymar, who was returning from coronavirus quarantine, said as he left the pitch. Gonzalez went on to deny making a racist comment. ALSO READ: 'I will be a Grand Slam champion,' says Zverev after US Open loss Neymar was talking about racism ‼️#PSGOM pic.twitter.com/AJnzuoSB9F — SnapGoal (@SnapGoal) September 13, 2020 × "The only regret I have is not hitting this idiot in the face," Neymar, the world's most expensive player, tweeted after the game. Único arrependimento que tenho é por não ter dado na cara desse babaca — Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) September 13, 2020 × Neymar was dismissed by the referee after a VAR check whereas his teammates Layvin Kurzawa and Leando Pareder were also sent off. For Marseille, Dario Benedetto and defender Jorfan Amavi were given the marching orders by the referee. Neymar, on Twitter, questioned the referees that if they can see his aggression then why can’t they pull up the guy who called him monkey. IN PICS | Pride, pain and a Schumacher: Ferrari celebrate 1,000th Grand Prix race We stand by you Neymar ❤️ pic.twitter.com/FWdDB9dAEh — Sakanelli🐐|Free Aouar💉 (@AFC_Sakanelli) September 13, 2020 × "It's easy for VAR to show my 'aggression'. 'Now I'd like to them to show the image of the racist who called me a 'MONKEY SON OF A B***H. I'd really like that!" Neymar tweeted. VAR pegar a minha “agressão” é mole ... agora eu quero ver pegar a imagem do racista me chamando de “MONO HIJO DE PUTA” (macaco filha da puta)... isso eu quero ver! E aí? CARRETILHA vc me pune.. CASCUDO sou expulso... e eles? E aí ? — Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) September 13, 2020 × ALSO READ: Ancelotti confident new-look Everton can shake up top six after Spurs win PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said that Neymar told him about the racist insult but added that he didn’t hear anything on the pitch. While Marseille coach Andre-Villas Boas said there’s no place for racism and they will have another look at the incident. Neymar "told me it was a racist insult, but I didn't hear anything on the pitch", PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said. "There is no place for racism in football but I don't think that was the case," Marseille coach Andre Villas-Boas told Telefoot. "We'll have to look at it." According to Telefoot, Gonzalez responded “what racism?” when asked about the incident. "There's no place for racism," the Spaniard wrote, adding: "Sometimes you have to learn to lose and take it on the field." PSG lost the match by 1-0 after a goal from Florian Thauvin in the 31st minute of the match.

'The only regret I have...' - Neymar alleges racism after Alvaro Gonzalez bust-up in PSG vs Marseille

<p>Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel defended his 400 million euro strike force of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe after they were unable to find a way past Bayern Munich in their 1-0 Champions League final loss on Sunday.</p>

<p>PSG's Qatari owners spent a combined 402 million euros ($474m) on the pair in 2017 to win this competition.</p>

<p>However, they struggled to impose themselves on the German giants who have now won Europe's top prize on six occasions.</p>

<p>Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, ended the night with a yellow card and in floods of tears.</p>

<p>"We want Neymar and Kylian to score but we can't ask for it all the time," said Tuchel.</p>

<p>"I am proud because 'Ney' still had a match with an incredible capacity, he showed his mentality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For Kylian it was difficult, he suffered a serious injury, missed a lot of training. It was a miracle that he was with us at all."</p>

<p>Mbappe had a great chance to score but shot straight at goalkeeper Manuel Neuer just before half-time.</p>

<p>As it was, Kingsley Coman, for whom PSG was his boyhood club, grabbed the only goal in the second half.</p>

<p>"I am convinced that if we had scored the first goal, we'd win the game 1-0," added Tuchel.</p>

<p>"I had the impression that the first goal would decide the fate of this final."</p>

<p>He added: "We have to keep this quality to continue on this road."</p>

<p>But will he still be in charge when PSG open their new season in the coming week?</p>

<p>"I have a contract, I don't know anything else."</p>

<h2>- 'Proud' PSG -</h2>

<p>PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi insisted the Champions League remains within their grasp.</p>

<p>"I am very proud of my players," said the Qatari.</p>

<p>"We had a great season, a great tournament here. Nobody thought we would go to the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We were very close to winning, we did everything to win, but that's football. We will work next season to win the Champions League because that is our goal."</p>

<p>PSG midfielder Ander Herrera admitted losing the final was tough to take but insisted the mega-rich French club cannot put their achievements "in the trash".</p>

<p>"We have built something important. We have to stay together and start the next dream next week," said Spanish international Herrera of a team who have won seven of the last eight Ligue 1 titles.</p>

<p>"At the moment, it feels like crap, honestly. But we have to think about it, we have done something important, something important for the club, for our supporters.</p>

<p>"There are no words. Tomorrow we'll think about what we did, the squad we built, the things we did together."</p>

<p>Herrera, signed from Manchester United in 2019, said he was encouraged by what he saw in the final as PSG "created lots of chances, more than them."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also hoped that the club's cash-rich but potentially impatient owners from Qatar won't press the panic button now that their European dream has been shattered.</p>

<p>"We are not going to put this in the trash," said the 31-year-old.</p>


Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel defended his 400 million euro strike force of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe after they were unable to find a way past Bayern Munich in their 1-0 Champions League final loss on Sunday.

Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel defended his 400 million euro strike force of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe after they were unable to find a way past Bayern Munich in their 1-0 Champions League final loss on Sunday. PSG's Qatari owners spent a combined 402 million euros ($474m) on the pair in 2017 to win this competition. However, they struggled to impose themselves on the German giants who have now won Europe's top prize on six occasions. Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, ended the night with a yellow card and in floods of tears. "We want Neymar and Kylian to score but we can't ask for it all the time," said Tuchel. "I am proud because 'Ney' still had a match with an incredible capacity, he showed his mentality. "For Kylian it was difficult, he suffered a serious injury, missed a lot of training. It was a miracle that he was with us at all." Mbappe had a great chance to score but shot straight at goalkeeper Manuel Neuer just before half-time. As it was, Kingsley Coman, for whom PSG was his boyhood club, grabbed the only goal in the second half. "I am convinced that if we had scored the first goal, we'd win the game 1-0," added Tuchel. "I had the impression that the first goal would decide the fate of this final." He added: "We have to keep this quality to continue on this road." But will he still be in charge when PSG open their new season in the coming week? "I have a contract, I don't know anything else." - 'Proud' PSG - PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi insisted the Champions League remains within their grasp. "I am very proud of my players," said the Qatari. "We had a great season, a great tournament here. Nobody thought we would go to the final. We were very close to winning, we did everything to win, but that's football. We will work next season to win the Champions League because that is our goal." PSG midfielder Ander Herrera admitted losing the final was tough to take but insisted the mega-rich French club cannot put their achievements "in the trash". "We have built something important. We have to stay together and start the next dream next week," said Spanish international Herrera of a team who have won seven of the last eight Ligue 1 titles. "At the moment, it feels like crap, honestly. But we have to think about it, we have done something important, something important for the club, for our supporters. "There are no words. Tomorrow we'll think about what we did, the squad we built, the things we did together." Herrera, signed from Manchester United in 2019, said he was encouraged by what he saw in the final as PSG "created lots of chances, more than them." He also hoped that the club's cash-rich but potentially impatient owners from Qatar won't press the panic button now that their European dream has been shattered. "We are not going to put this in the trash," said the 31-year-old.

PSG boss Tuchel backs Neymar and Mbappe after final loss

<p>There has been a lot of talks surrounding Neymar wanting to leave French club Paris Saint-Germain, however, the Brazilian forward isn’t departing anytime soon and has set his eyes on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> while claiming he is currently in his best form since joining the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona in 2017.</p>

<p>Neymar’s journey in Paris has been struck with injuries and controversies since his 200-million-pound deal while constant speculations that the forward wants to go back to Barcelona. However, with Barcelona president Joseph Maria Bartomeu saying the situation isn’t right to spend heavily on Neymar and that may have helped to mend relationship with his current employers and fans.</p>

<p>"During these three years I have acquired a lot of knowledge," Neymar told PSG's official website. "I have lived through happy moments and difficult ones, especially when the injuries didn't allow me to play.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/travel-restrictions-may-force-football-clubs-to-forfeit-european-games-next-season-318377" hreflang="en">Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season</a></strong></p>

<p>"With the help of my teammates, I was able to overcome them and focus on what really matters, our performances on the field which translate into titles," he added.</p>

<p>Neymar further said that he wishes to PSG’s Champions League drought as they look to face Italian club Atalanta in the quarter-finals. "Our fans, the club and all fans can see the fight of our team in any game. I am in my best form since I arrived in Paris, the team is like a family," he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-and-europa-league-fixtures-timings-of-remaining-round-of-16-matches-317873" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches</a></strong></p>

<p>"We want to win the Champions League title. We will fight because we have never been so close."</p>

<p>The Final-8 of Champions League is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal. All the matches will be one-legged tie given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic.</p>


There has been a lot of talks surrounding Neymar wanting to leave French club Paris Saint-Germain, however, the Brazilian forward isn’t departing anytime soon and has set his eyes on the UEFA Champions League while claiming he is currently in his best form since joining the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona in 2017.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding Neymar wanting to leave French club Paris Saint-Germain, however, the Brazilian forward isn’t departing anytime soon and has set his eyes on the UEFA Champions League while claiming he is currently in his best form since joining the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona in 2017. Neymar’s journey in Paris has been struck with injuries and controversies since his 200-million-pound deal while constant speculations that the forward wants to go back to Barcelona. However, with Barcelona president Joseph Maria Bartomeu saying the situation isn’t right to spend heavily on Neymar and that may have helped to mend relationship with his current employers and fans. "During these three years I have acquired a lot of knowledge," Neymar told PSG's official website. "I have lived through happy moments and difficult ones, especially when the injuries didn't allow me to play. ALSO READ: Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season "With the help of my teammates, I was able to overcome them and focus on what really matters, our performances on the field which translate into titles," he added. Neymar further said that he wishes to PSG’s Champions League drought as they look to face Italian club Atalanta in the quarter-finals. "Our fans, the club and all fans can see the fight of our team in any game. I am in my best form since I arrived in Paris, the team is like a family," he said. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches "We want to win the Champions League title. We will fight because we have never been so close." The Final-8 of Champions League is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal. All the matches will be one-legged tie given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic.

'We want to win the Champions League': Neymar ready to end PSG's UCL title drought

<p>Paris Saint-Germain are still optimistic they can win the Champions League for the first time when the tournament is played out in Lisbon in August, even if the coronavirus crisis has left the Qatar-owned club apparently weakened both on the field and off it.</p>

<p>The decision to bring an early end to the French season in late April, with more than a quarter of matches unplayed, did not prevent PSG from being crowned Ligue 1 champions for the third year running, but it was hardly how they wanted things to end.</p>

<p>Without having had the chance to celebrate, the Parisians return to training on Monday, over three months after their last game, the 2-0 defeat of Borussia Dortmund in their Champions League last 16, second leg.</p>

<p>Their players have since spent months confined at home before having some time to take a holiday.</p>

<p>PSG's rivals in England, Spain, Germany and Italy are back playing again. In contrast, Neymar returned to France last weekend after three months in Brazil and headed straight to join teammates Marco Verratti, Angel Di Maria, Leandro Paredes and Marquinhos in the glitzy Mediterranean resort of Saint-Tropez.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe posted photos of himself on Instagram along the coast in Monaco.</p>

<p>They return this week to a club having to deal with the financial consequences of the pandemic and the early end to the season, with the resulting losses of ticketing and broadcast revenue.</p>

<p>Within PSG, it is estimated they stand to lose over 200 million euros ($224m), an enormous hit even for a club ranked the fifth-richest in the world in the latest Deloitte Football Money League.</p>

<h2>- Old heads move on -</h2>

<p>That will probably ensure there are no headline-grabbing transfers coming soon, although they recently made Argentine striker Mauro Icardi's loan move from Inter Milan permanent for a reported fee of up to 58 million euros.</p>

<p>The financial situation has also helped make up the mind of sporting director Leonardo over the futures of Thiago Silva and Edinson Cavani, two of the biggest figures of the Qatar era whose contracts expire this month and will not be retained.</p>

<p>"Maybe we are making a mistake, I don't know, there is never a perfect moment," Leonardo told Le Journal du Dimanche.</p>

<p>It is hoped Brazilian defender Silva, the club captain, can be persuaded to stay to feature in the Champions League latter stages, but club record goal-scorer Cavani has reportedly opted to walk away at the end of June.</p>

<p>The exodus will not stop there.</p>

<p>Right-back Thomas Meunier, reportedly bound for Dortmund, will not stick around. Highly talented 18-year-old defender Tanguy Kouassi is expected to sign for Bayern Munich.</p>

<p>However, the prospects of either Mbappe or Neymar leaving appear less than slim, given the financial challenges faced by PSG's European rivals.</p>

<p>"He is the future of PSG. That is what everyone wants. Ideally we would extend his contract," Leonardo said of Mbappe.</p>

<p>What Mbappe and PSG want now is the Champions League, and after years of underachievement in Europe they are targeting glory when the competition is played out in a "final eight" straight knockout format in Lisbon.</p>

<h2>- 'More difficult' -</h2>

<p>However, between now and a quarter-final somewhere between August 12 and 15, Thomas Tuchel's team will only have two competitive games, with the French Cup final against Saint-Etienne and League Cup final against Lyon both set to go ahead in late July.</p>

<p>"We have felt good ever since the season began. Unfortunately, we know what happened with the coronavirus and everything had to stop," Di Maria told sports daily L'Equipe.</p>

<p>"The other major leagues are restarting. That must not be an excuse but it does make things more difficult for us," he added.</p>

<p>Like Lyon, PSG are therefore completely out of step with their Champions League rivals, although that could still work to their advantage.</p>

<p>For example, Spanish and English clubs will have completed an exhausting dash to get their seasons finished in late July.</p>

<p>Perhaps Mbappe, Neymar and their teammates will be fresher than ever and therefore primed to go on and win the final in Lisbon on August 23.</p>


Paris Saint-Germain are still optimistic they can win the Champions League for the first time when the tournament is played out in Lisbon in August, even if the coronavirus crisis has left the Qatar-owned club apparently weakened both on the field and off it.

Paris Saint-Germain are still optimistic they can win the Champions League for the first time when the tournament is played out in Lisbon in August, even if the coronavirus crisis has left the Qatar-owned club apparently weakened both on the field and off it. The decision to bring an early end to the French season in late April, with more than a quarter of matches unplayed, did not prevent PSG from being crowned Ligue 1 champions for the third year running, but it was hardly how they wanted things to end. Without having had the chance to celebrate, the Parisians return to training on Monday, over three months after their last game, the 2-0 defeat of Borussia Dortmund in their Champions League last 16, second leg. Their players have since spent months confined at home before having some time to take a holiday. PSG's rivals in England, Spain, Germany and Italy are back playing again. In contrast, Neymar returned to France last weekend after three months in Brazil and headed straight to join teammates Marco Verratti, Angel Di Maria, Leandro Paredes and Marquinhos in the glitzy Mediterranean resort of Saint-Tropez. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe posted photos of himself on Instagram along the coast in Monaco. They return this week to a club having to deal with the financial consequences of the pandemic and the early end to the season, with the resulting losses of ticketing and broadcast revenue. Within PSG, it is estimated they stand to lose over 200 million euros ($224m), an enormous hit even for a club ranked the fifth-richest in the world in the latest Deloitte Football Money League. - Old heads move on - That will probably ensure there are no headline-grabbing transfers coming soon, although they recently made Argentine striker Mauro Icardi's loan move from Inter Milan permanent for a reported fee of up to 58 million euros. The financial situation has also helped make up the mind of sporting director Leonardo over the futures of Thiago Silva and Edinson Cavani, two of the biggest figures of the Qatar era whose contracts expire this month and will not be retained. "Maybe we are making a mistake, I don't know, there is never a perfect moment," Leonardo told Le Journal du Dimanche. It is hoped Brazilian defender Silva, the club captain, can be persuaded to stay to feature in the Champions League latter stages, but club record goal-scorer Cavani has reportedly opted to walk away at the end of June. The exodus will not stop there. Right-back Thomas Meunier, reportedly bound for Dortmund, will not stick around. Highly talented 18-year-old defender Tanguy Kouassi is expected to sign for Bayern Munich. However, the prospects of either Mbappe or Neymar leaving appear less than slim, given the financial challenges faced by PSG's European rivals. "He is the future of PSG. That is what everyone wants. Ideally we would extend his contract," Leonardo said of Mbappe. What Mbappe and PSG want now is the Champions League, and after years of underachievement in Europe they are targeting glory when the competition is played out in a "final eight" straight knockout format in Lisbon. - 'More difficult' - However, between now and a quarter-final somewhere between August 12 and 15, Thomas Tuchel's team will only have two competitive games, with the French Cup final against Saint-Etienne and League Cup final against Lyon both set to go ahead in late July. "We have felt good ever since the season began. Unfortunately, we know what happened with the coronavirus and everything had to stop," Di Maria told sports daily L'Equipe. "The other major leagues are restarting. That must not be an excuse but it does make things more difficult for us," he added. Like Lyon, PSG are therefore completely out of step with their Champions League rivals, although that could still work to their advantage. For example, Spanish and English clubs will have completed an exhausting dash to get their seasons finished in late July. Perhaps Mbappe, Neymar and their teammates will be fresher than ever and therefore primed to go on and win the final in Lisbon on August 23.

PSG re-emerge weakened but with eyes fixed on Champions League prize

<p>After the announcement of the French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, french professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restriction.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-pm-edouard-philippes-announcement-ends-ligue-1-and-ligue-2-seasons-295375">French PM Edouard Philippe's announcement ends Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 seasons</a></p>

<p>Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said that the club will be completing the rest of the Champions League season abroad if the regulations as per announcement do not allow them to play in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Al-Khelaifi said: "We respect the French government decision. With agreement from UEFA, we plan on competing in the Champions League, wherever and whenever it is held."</p>

<p>"If it is not possible to play in France we will play our matches abroad, ensuring the best medical safety conditions for our players and all of our staff."</p>

<p>Earlier, UEFA had set a deadline of August 2 for domestic leagues to be completed and French Professional Football League (LFP) had announced plans for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 to resume on June 17.</p>

<p>While the league and some clubs may want to resume training after May 11, the French government doesn’t see it as an absolute priority and have decided to ban professional sporting leagues including football and rugby until September.</p>

<p>Before the season was halted due to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSG, Marseille and Rennes occupied the UEFA Champions League whereas Lille are taking the Europa League spot. Nimes, Amiens and Toulouse are in the relegation zone. Whereas in Ligue 2, Lorient and Lens are in promotion spots.</p>


After the announcement of the French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, french professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restriction.

After the announcement of the French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, french professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restriction. Also read: French PM Edouard Philippe's announcement ends Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 seasons Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said that the club will be completing the rest of the Champions League season abroad if the regulations as per announcement do not allow them to play in the country. Al-Khelaifi said: "We respect the French government decision. With agreement from UEFA, we plan on competing in the Champions League, wherever and whenever it is held." "If it is not possible to play in France we will play our matches abroad, ensuring the best medical safety conditions for our players and all of our staff." Earlier, UEFA had set a deadline of August 2 for domestic leagues to be completed and French Professional Football League (LFP) had announced plans for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 to resume on June 17. While the league and some clubs may want to resume training after May 11, the French government doesn’t see it as an absolute priority and have decided to ban professional sporting leagues including football and rugby until September. Before the season was halted due to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSG, Marseille and Rennes occupied the UEFA Champions League whereas Lille are taking the Europa League spot. Nimes, Amiens and Toulouse are in the relegation zone. Whereas in Ligue 2, Lorient and Lens are in promotion spots.

Paris Saint-Germain could play Champions League fixtures abroad: Nasser Al-Khelaifi

paris-saint-germain

Paris Saint Germain, News on Paris Saint Germain, stories on Paris Saint Germain, articles on Paris Saint Germain, Paris Saint Germain stories at Wion, Paris Saint Germain news, Paris Saint Germain latest news

paris saint-germain