Lionel Messi returns to PSG training after apology for Saudi Arabia trip

Lionel Messi is back in training at Paris Saint-Germain, as a supposed two-week ban handed out to the Argentine appears to have been lifted.

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner did not figure in PSG’s plans for a 3-1 victory over Troyes on Sunday after taking in an unauthorised visit to Saudi Arabia. It was suggested that he would be also be forced to sit out a meeting with Ajaccio on May 13, with the South American being told to stay away from Christophe Galtier’s camp, but the 35-year-old has returned to the training pitch on Monday – albeit alone as the rest of the squad enjoy a post-game day rest.

⚽️🔛 Leo Messi back in training this Monday morning. pic.twitter.com/Neo6GEWEIm

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) May 8, 2023

 PSG did not make any official comment on Messi’s suspension, meaning that his ban could have been cut in half to just one week. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner did apologise for his trip to the Middle East, which may have earned him favour in the eyes of club bosses. Indeed, French outlet L'Equipe suggests that the suspension has been lifted altogether as a result of said apology.

Messi is continuing to cause controversy in Paris, though, with disgruntled supporters having aired their anger towards him and fellow South American Neymar. A new contract is yet to be signed by the all-time great, as he heads towards free agency and a fresh start outside of France in the summer of 2023.