Amid reports of a potential return to his formative club this summer, Lionel Messi’s future at Paris Saint-Germain remains in doubt. The Argentine is coming to the end of a two-year deal – with an option for an extra year – in June, and although talks have been underway since December, the Ligue 1 leaders are reportedly no longer certain about keeping the World Cup winner at the club.
Speaking to journalist Gerard Romero in the wake of the Clásico win over Real Madrid – in which he scored – defender Sergi Roberto discussed the possibility of a return to Catalonia for the club’s all-time top scorer.
“Who wouldn’t be prepared to have Leo back? We don’t want to talk about it that much because in the end it’s his decision, and that of the president, the manager – but if it was up to the players, we’re waiting for him.”
The 31-year-old was also asked about the treatment that some of the Parc des Princes faithful have been giving to Messi, who was notably booed when the lineups were called up before Sunday’s afternoon’s defeat to Rennes. The booing – which was also countered by some cheers – is a repeat of the reception the Argentine received in the wake of last year’s Champions League elimination, after which he stopped going over to the ultras after games for several months.
“There’s no reason for it. He’s having a very good season with PSG, scoring a lot of goals, getting assists. They’ve taken the Champions League elimination out on him, but in the end he’s a spectacular player. To see a player of that level being treated like that leaves a bitter taste, around here we’ll be treating him very well.”
