Messi 'missed PSG training' for 'unapproved' Saudi Arabia visit

Lionel Messi skipped training with Paris Saint Germain (PSG) on Monday for an "unapproved" visit to Saudi Arabia, according to reports.

The Argentine forward is in the kingdom as part of his multi-million dollar role as a tourism ambassador for the Visit Saudi campaign.

Although PSG players were penciled in to have Monday and Tuesday off, their coach Christophe Galtier ordered players to come in for training the following day after their embarrassing 3-1 defeat to the French mid-table side Lorient on Sunday.

Messi was reportedly already in the kingdom when the PSG players were training, as part of his visit for his Saudi commitments, having already postponed the visit twice, L'Equipe reported.

He had reportedly been unable to cancel the trip and after receiving no word from his coach or PSG's sporting director, went ahead with the visit anyways, sources told the outlet.

The World Cup winner posted photos of himself playing games and relaxing with family in the kingdom on Monday.

"Who thought Saudi has so much green? I love to explore its unexpected wonders whenever I can. #visitsaudi," he commented in the post. 

Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb welcomed the football star to the kingdom in a tweet.

"I am happy to welcome #Messi and his family to Saudi to enjoy the magical tourist destinations and authentic experiences. We welcome visitors from all around the world to experience a unique trip to Saudi Arabia and its hospitality," he tweeted.

Messi has been linked to a move to Saudi Arabia before, following rumours that the 35-year-old is unhappy at the Paris club.

Christiano Ronaldo - who like Messi is considered the greatest player of his generation - moved to Riyadh-based club Al-Nassr following a tumultuous spell at Manchester United.

Messi won his first World Cup in December 2022, donning an Arabic bisht robe as he lifted the cup in Qatar. The star has a huge following in the Arab world and many fans have hoped he would make a move to Saudi Arabia where millions of dollars have been spent revamping its domestic league.