Lionel Messi‘s father, Jorge Messi, has asserted that “fake news” is being spread about the future of his son and Paris Saint-Germain star player.
Messi finishes his current contract with the French club at the end of the 2022/23 campaign, intensifying rumors about his next destination.
One report this week suggested that PSG are unwilling to accept Messi‘s salary demands with regards to a contract renewal, while another claimed he is asking for 600 million to join Saudi side Al Hilal.
On Friday, Leo Messi was also said to have walked out of a training session earlier in the week due to an argument with coach Christophe Galtier.
Jorge Messi denies all rumors
Jorge Messi took to social media on Friday to clarify the news about his son.
“When are they going to stop lying?” he posted on his personal Instagram account, alongside screenshots of the three articles.
“Where is the proof? Ah, it’s all fake. OK. No matter how loud they may be. Don’t believe it. We won’t tolerate any more fake news to gain followers.”
Messi has 18 goals and 17 assists in 31 appearances for PSG this season, but received criticism for his performance in the Champions League last-16 exit to Bayern Munich.
When asked about the world champion’s future at a press conference on Friday, Galtier said, “I know that Leo Messi and the board have held talks. As for whether Leo Messi will be here next season or not, I said it is a matter of desire. I know people will discuss it, but Leo Messi is happy in the dressing room.”
“He has 18 goals and 17 assists this season. I know he received criticism for the Champions League game against Bayern Munich, but he wasn’t the only one. As for his future, it’s too early to say what will happen,” the PSG manager concluded.